Defence adviser directs DCs to boost civil-military synergy for people-centric armed forces

Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to take a more proactive role in strengthening civil-military coordination and supporting efforts to make the armed forces more people-oriented, said Prime Minister's Defence Adviser Brigadier General (retd) AKM Shamsul Islam while addressing the Deputy Commissioners' Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka today (5 May). 

Emphasising that effective governance at the field level depends on close cooperation between civil administration and security institutions, he directed DCs to strengthen coordination mechanisms that can simultaneously improve public service delivery and reinforce national security outcomes.

The event was attended as special guests by Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hasan, and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, along with Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division Lieutenant General Mir Mushfiqur Rahman and Secretary of the Ministry of Defence Md Ashraf Uddin. The session was chaired by Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani. 

In his speech, the adviser paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War, armed forces personnel killed in national and international duties, and civilians, including students killed in the recent July movement. He said these sacrifices remain closely tied to Bangladesh's democratic journey and national resilience. He noted the armed forces' historical contribution in the Liberation War and their continued role as a "people's force," particularly during disasters, emergencies, and national crises, where they consistently supported civilian authorities.

Security framework expansion, civil-military coordination emphasised 

The adviser emphasised that national security today extends far beyond traditional military threats and now includes cyber risks, climate change, energy and food security, and economic stability. 

Calling for a "Whole of Government Approach," he stressed that no single institution can address these challenges alone and that coordinated action across state agencies is essential. 

He also highlighted "credible deterrence," saying the professionalism and public trust of the armed forces are central to national stability, and described military personnel as "citizens in uniform" bound by discipline, sacrifice, and service to the state.

Speaking to journalists after the session, he said Deputy Commissioners were briefed on the priorities, working methods, and plans of the service chiefs on behalf of the Defence Ministry and Armed Forces Division. He added that the political philosophy of the late President Ziaur Rahman was also discussed in this context. 

He further said discussions focused on strengthening recruitment in the armed forces with emphasis on professionalism and patriotism in line with directives from the Prime Minister, as well as reviewing how coordination between the army, DCs, and civil administration functioned during elections and how it could be further strengthened.

Forces chiefs outline operational roles, reaffirm inter-agency cooperation 

The Army Chief congratulated stakeholders for successfully conducting a fair and neutral election and assured that the armed forces remain fully prepared for any national crisis. 

The Navy Chief highlighted the Navy's role in safeguarding coastal and maritime boundaries, while the Air Chief outlined ongoing modernisation efforts and future development plans, including the induction of new aircraft. 

The Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division and senior Defence Ministry officials reiterated continued inter-agency cooperation, while the Cabinet Secretary praised the armed forces for their role in maintaining national security, public order, and supporting democratic processes.

Energy minister announces 5,000MW solar expansion 

In a separate briefing, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood Tuku outlined a renewable energy plan targeting 5,000 megawatts of electricity generation within the next five years through large-scale solar expansion. 

As an immediate step, he said, instructions have been issued to install solar panels at all Deputy Commissioner offices across the country within the next three months.

He explained that Bangladesh's rural electricity distribution system relies on long transmission lines, which can occasionally cause technical faults leading to temporary disruptions. 

However, he clarified that these interruptions should not be described as load shedding, adding that power is restored quickly once faults are fixed. He also firmly rejected claims that recent disruptions were due to fuel shortages, attributing them instead to technical issues.

The minister thanked Deputy Commissioners for addressing what he described as attempts to spread misinformation about artificial fuel shortages. He said field-level officials were briefed in detail on the country's electricity and energy situation so that accurate information can be communicated locally. 

He added that the solar-based power initiative forms part of a broader long-term shift toward environmentally sustainable energy systems.

Govt to probe into "Bir Nibas" and freedom fighter list irregularities

Meanwhile, State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain said irregularities in the "Bir Nibas" housing project and in freedom fighter lists during the previous government would be investigated. 

Speaking after discussions with DCs, he said concerns were raised over inconsistencies in the lists and noted that around 30,000 houses have already been built under the project, with more underway.

He alleged that politicisation and corruption affected multiple sectors under the previous government and said these issues were discussed in detail during the conference. He assured that investigations would be conducted and corrective measures taken to prevent recurrence. 

He also said Deputy Commissioners were briefed on ongoing initiatives for "July fighters" linked to the 2024 mass uprising and sought their cooperation in implementing these programmes at the field level.

At the briefing, Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan reaffirmed the government's commitment to preserving the legacy of the Liberation War, describing it as the nation's greatest achievement and a core element of national identity.