Coup rumors in Bangladesh after Army chief holds emergency meeting
What's the story
Rumors of a possible coup in Bangladesh have surfaced again after the Army held an emergency meeting chaired by chief Waker-Uz-Zaman on Monday. The meeting was held amid growing military presence, especially in Dhaka. India Today, quoting sources, said top army officials, including five Lieutenant Generals, eight Major Generals (GOCs), commanding officers of Independent Brigades and officials of the army headquarters, attended the meeting.
Stability restoration
Military's role in restoring stability discussed
The emergency meeting focused on the military's role in bringing stability to the country. Per the report, the army is considering pressuring President Mohammed Shahbuddin to declare a state of emergency or stage a coup against Muhammad Yunus. It is also considering a national unity government under its supervision, according to India Today sources.
Military oversight
Formation of a national unity government under military supervision
The military's growing displeasure has been fanned by recent rallies by various political parties and student leaders who have openly criticized the army's influence. The unrest has prompted sections of the military to consider steps to quell dissent. In response, the Bangladesh army has increased security operations throughout Dhaka by deploying combined forces, increasing patrols, and establishing checkpoints.
Diplomatic relations
Yunus's upcoming China visit amid political turmoil
Escalating the problem, a social media campaign against the military has gained pace in recent weeks. France-based Bangladeshi social media influencer Pinaki Bhattacharya has launched a campaign against the army chief, claiming he is pro-India. The campaign is primarily being led through social media, with the hashtags #IndiaOut, #BoycottIndia, and #BoycottIndianProducts dominating on Facebook.
Security concerns
Army chief's meetings amid rising extremism
Amid speculation of a military coup, the country's Army chief had earlier warned the country's politicians against infighting, hinting at shaky grounds. "Later you will say I did not warn you, so I am warning you. If you cannot forget your differences and work together, if you keep mudslinging at each other, fight each other and kill each other, the country's and this community's freedom will go in vain," General Zaman said.