The government has warned that strict action will be taken against any member of the Coast Guard or law enforcement found involved in implementing political agendas.
Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury warns the matter while addressing the “Bangladesh Coast Guard Medal 2026” ceremony at the Coast Guard Headquarters in Agargaon on Monday.
He said any officer or personnel acting on behalf of a person, party, or political agenda during the 13th national parliamentary election and referendum would face departmental and legal action.
“The government will not show leniency in ensuring neutrality,” he added.
“Those who neglect duty, act unjustly, or are swayed by greed will face strict measures.”
Highlighting the Coast Guard’s contributions, the adviser praised the force for safeguarding coastal areas and internal waterways, preventing illegal fishing, smuggling of arms and drugs, human trafficking, piracy, and river robbery.
He also acknowledged their successful rescue operations of distressed vessels and seafarers through regular patrols.
Jahangir Alam Chowdhury lauded the force’s disaster response efforts, including cyclone and flood relief, distribution of aid and winter supplies, provision of life jackets, and work during the Rohingya crisis.
He noted the Coast Guard’s role in ensuring security along border rivers and strengthening regional maritime safety. The force has received praise and expressed interest in joint operations from countries including the United States and Australia.
Regarding the upcoming 12 February election, he said 3,585 Coast Guard members are part of a nationwide deployment of nearly 900,000 law enforcement personnel to ensure free, fair, peaceful, and neutral elections. Already, 100 platoons have been deployed across Barisal, Chattogram, and Khulna divisions.
The adviser also described corruption as the greatest enemy of the state, weakening institutions and eroding public trust.
At the ceremony, 40 Coast Guard personnel received medals for exemplary service. The event was chaired by Director General Rear admiral Muhammad Ziaul Hoque. Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Nasimul Gani spoke as a special guest.
Later at a press briefing, Lt Gen Chowdhury said isolated incidents of violence had occurred during election preparations, but the rate remained much lower compared with previous national elections.
Most incidents, he said, were caused by inter-party and intra-group conflicts, posing challenges for law enforcement. He urged all parties to exercise patience and remain vigilant.
