Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said on Saturday that weapons are being recovered on a daily basis as Bangladesh moves closer to its national election, expected in February.
“Even today, weapons were recovered. We hope to recover almost all weapons before the election,” he told reporters after inspecting the BADC Seed Building near Gabtoli Bus Stand in Dhaka.
Chowdhury said authorities have taken measures to block the inflow of arms from outside the country. Asked if additional steps would be enforced during the election period, he replied that the effort is not limited to a specific time frame. “All necessary steps will be taken. Not only during the election, but at other times as well, we will ensure that no weapons can enter the country,” he said.
On election preparations, the adviser noted that planning is progressing as expected. “We are taking preparations as required. If Allah wills, there will be no difficulty in holding the election in February. We are preparing to conduct the election on the date set by our Chief Adviser, and all preparations will be complete by then,” he said.
Chowdhury also addressed questions about political participation. Responding to speculation on social media that the Awami League might not join the election under the interim government, he pointed to a broader change in public expression. “The country now has freedom of speech. Earlier, much could not be expressed publicly. Now everyone can express their views as they wish,” he said.
He added that the role of citizens would ultimately shape the outcome. “The people will decide. When both the public and political parties become election-focused, no one will be able to obstruct the process. The people are our main factor. Since everyone is preparing for the election, it will proceed smoothly.”
Chowdhury insisted the borders are secure, thanks to vigilant locals. It’s a key message as the administration tries to assure voters of a safe election while balancing security needs with planning.
