Speculation rife over coup against Bangladesh army chief

New Delhi: Speculation is rife about a possible coup in the Bangladesh army amid ongoing conflict between Islamists and progressives in the neighbouring country.

Lieutenant General Mohammad Faizur Rahman, quarter master general of Bangladesh army, known for his pro-Islamist sentiments, may be plotting to take over the reins of the army, it has been learnt. Rahman had engaged with the visiting chief of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence and its delegation to Dhaka last week.

Rahman, however, does not command troops and is allegedly exploring options to garner support from within the army to "execute" the plan. Sources familiar with the dynamics of Bangladesh Army indicated that Rahman may try to garner support from DGFI, the intelligence wing of Bangladesh army.


Current army chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman, ideologically a centrist, remains favourably disposed towards India and is preventing a full-blown Islamist takeover of the country by positioning the army as the institution critical to the stability of Bangladesh. He had ensured that the then PM Sheikh Hasina gets a safe passage to India as the Islamists-led mob threatened to overrun the PM's residence on August 5 last year.

Another power centre in Bangladesh Army is being led by Lt Gen Mohammad Shaheenul Haque, commandant of National Defence College, Mirpur cantonment, Dhaka. He is backed by pro-Awami League Major Gen Muhammad Moin Khan of the ninth division of Bangladesh Army, often considered the most powerful division.

Lt Gen Haque was the commander of Victory Day Parade 2022 and previously chief of general staff at the army headquarters. He was commissioned in the corps of infantry in July 1989. He was awarded the coveted 'Sword of Honour' for best all-round performance at his commission. He also served in the past as director of weapons, equipment & statistics directorate in army headquarters, general staff branch.