Coup, Counter-Coup, Rumors, Denials, and a Volatile March

Opinion

Over the past few days, rumors of a “coup in the army” have been circulating. Especially after the Army Chief’s candid remarks on February 25, there was speculation about the government’s angry reaction—this time, the Army Chief would retaliate, as it was clear that after August 5, the responsibility of national security rested on his shoulders. Instead, when he went to inspect the Bangladeshi contingent in Central Africa, rumors began to spread.

Government-aligned intellectuals started claiming, “He has fled, or he won’t be allowed to return to the country.” Later, it was rumored that “this time, Chuppu will be ousted, and Dr. Yunus will consolidate power.” Speculations arose that Quartermaster General Lt. Gen. Mohammad Faizur Rahman, known as an “ISI favorite,” would take over. He is believed to be aligned with Jamaat and radical Islamists. For months, he has been connected to ISI.

According to various sources, while the Army Chief was in Africa, a four-member Indian military delegation, led by a senior officer, arrived in Bangladesh on a civilian visit to sign an MOA agreement. However, they did not meet with any trade advisors or similar officials. What they did here remains unknown. The result, however, was that on March 7, the day Hizb ut-Tahrir announced its “March for Khilafah” program, the Army Chief, who was scheduled to return in the evening, unexpectedly arrived 7 hours early. Unverified sources claim he landed at Tejgaon Army-controlled airport instead of Shahjalal, thwarting a “well-devised plan.” Hizb ut-Tahrir’s march destination was also disrupted.

It is speculated that the Army Chief would have been confronted at Shahjalal Airport. He could have been arrested, or something even more drastic might have occurred. Mr. Rahman called a meeting to remove General Waker but did not receive the expected support.

Later, strong rumors circulated that Lt. Gen. Mohammad Faizur Rahman and some of his loyal officers were placed under “house arrest.”

The actual event was likely an emergency meeting called by the Army Chief on the night of the 9th. Officers from all alleged “multiple factions” were present. Among other things, the Army Chief reminded everyone, “The people have entrusted us with the responsibility of protecting the country. We must perform this duty above all party lines.”

The fact that Lt. Gen. Md. Mainur Rahman met with Pakistan’s Army Chief is not a rumor. ISI representatives have visited various regions of Bangladesh multiple times in recent months—this is not a rumor. Pakistan, on ISI’s advice, plans to renovate Lalmonirhat’s abandoned airport and deploy fighter jets there—this is also not a rumor.

Ideologically, the Bangladesh Army is broadly divided into three factions. Amidst the recent rumors and counter-rumors, Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman’s position has become stronger than ever before.

The radical groups, whose plans have been foiled, are spreading rumors of a “mild coup” in the cantonment. Many Awami League supporters believe the Army Chief is sympathetic to radical Islamists. On August 5, he was the first to mention “Jamaat,” called Asif Nazrul “Sir,” but none of this matters. By adopting a moderate stance, he will undoubtedly drive the final nail into the coffin at the right time. As I have said before, March has always been a volatile month in Bangladesh’s history.

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March 11, 2025
Manzurul Haque
Veteran Journalist and Political Analyst