Bangladesh army granted authority ranging from the arrests till firing

Muhammad Yunus

Dhaka (Bangladesh) – The interim Government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has failed to restore order amid escalating chaos in the country. As a result, the Government has granted the army special powers to act as executive magistrates across Bangladesh. The Ministry of Public Administration has issued a notification allowing military officers to operate as executive magistrates under the supervision of District magistrates for the next 60 days. These orders apply nationwide, giving the army significant authority to intervene in civilian matters.

Alarm bells ring as Bangladesh’s interim government led by Prof. Muhammad Yunus grants army special executive magistrate powers!

Is democracy dwindling in Bangladesh ?

Key Concerns:
– Military control looming
– Erosion of civilian authority
– Pakistan-like scenario unfolding pic.twitter.com/uSGPZPfFUC

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) September 18, 2024

After being granted magisterial powers, military authorities in Bangladesh now possess the ability to arrest and detain individuals. Additionally, they have the right to fire weapons in self-defence or if deemed necessary. Justifying the decision, Asif Nazrul, the Government’s legal adviser, stated, “We are observing destructive activities and unrest in various areas. Given the circumstances, military officers have been vested with magisterial authority. It is expected that they will not misuse this power. Once the situation stabilises, this authority will be revoked, and the military will return to its regular role.”

After Sheikh Hasina fled the country on August 5, chaos erupted in Bangladesh. Large-scale attacks were carried out against the Police, with numerous Police stations and vehicles set ablaze. Many officers were forced into hiding to protect their lives. According to sources within the Bangladesh Police, 450 out of the country’s 664 Police stations were targeted in these attacks.

Editorial Perspective

It appears that Bangladesh is moving towards a scenario where the military gains increased control, potentially diminishing the prospects for a fully functioning democracy. Bangladesh could follow a trajectory similar to Pakistan, where military influence has historically overshadowed democratic processes.