As news spread of former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina fleeing her country following an Army takeover after violent student unrest led to scores of deaths, injuries and financial loss, a man in military fatiques addressed the nation on television, saying he would form the interim government, adding, "I am taking full responsibility."
It is time to stop the violence, the country has suffered, the economy has been hit, he said. "I hope after my speech, the situation will improve."
The man now in control of a country that India shares borders with is an Infantryman with almost 40 years of military service.
Appointed Chief of Army Staff in June this year after succeeding Gen SM Shafiuddin Ahmed, Gen Waker Uz Zaman has been a UN peacekeeper.
Prior roles included Chief of General Staff (CGS) of the Bangladesh Army from 29 December 2023, where he was involved in operational and strategic planning to keep the Army’s fighting fit.
In November 2020, he was promoted to Lieutenant General, becoming the 15th Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division. In this role, he was instrumental in coordinating military strategies and operations.
During his service he has commanded an infantry battalion, an independent infantry brigade, and an infantry division. His staff roles have included positions at the Infantry Brigade, School of Infantry and Tactics, and Army Headquarters.
After training at the Bangladesh Military Academy, he pursued advanced studies at the Defence Services Command and Staff College in Mirpur and the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the UK.
He also holds degrees in Defence Studies from the National University of Bangladesh and King's College, University of London.
He has also been awarded the Army Medal of Glory (SGP) and the Extraordinary Service Medal (OSP).
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