Throughout his tenure in the Bangladesh Army, Lieutenant General Md Mujeebur Rahman’s career was marked by significant influence, political alliances, and alleged favoritism that extended far beyond traditional military duty. His reputed ties with India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and close association with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid are said to have enabled him to wield substantial influence over Bangladesh’s military policies. These associations, as well as his reputed actions and decisions, have raised pressing questions about foreign influence within Bangladesh’s borders and the broader implications for national sovereignty.
General Mujeeb’s career trajectory has often been characterized by his loyalty to Sheikh Hasina and, reportedly, to RAW, which helped solidify his status within the ranks of the Bangladeshi military. This political loyalty, more than merit or traditional military values, allegedly enabled him to rise quickly through the ranks. The influence he wielded within the armed forces is believed to have allowed him to embed a loyal faction, forming what some have described as a “shadow army,” deeply loyal to him and his political affiliations. This faction, aligned with specific political and foreign interests, reportedly influenced significant military policies and even operational decisions, raising concerns about impartiality and the potential manipulation of the Bangladeshi armed forces to serve foreign objectives.
Once positioned within the upper echelons of the military, General Mujeeb allegedly used his influence to promote personnel within the army based on political loyalty rather than merit, particularly favoring those with connections to the ruling Awami League. Reports suggest that his strategic promotions reshaped the structure and loyalty of the Bangladeshi armed forces, embedding a culture of favoritism that has proven difficult to dismantle. This politicization of the military, if true, undermines the institution’s foundational values of loyalty to the state rather than individual political figures or foreign agendas. Furthermore, General Mujeeb’s legacy reportedly extends beyond internal military matters. He allegedly facilitated the positioning of RAW operatives within Bangladesh, enabling them to operate covertly under his protection. This purported alliance with RAW not only raises serious concerns about national sovereignty but also implies a direct challenge to Bangladesh’s independence in its defense and intelligence operations.
In addition to alleged favoritism and foreign alliances, General Mujeeb’s career is reportedly marred by accusations of extrajudicial actions. Numerous sources have linked him to the deaths of over 390 Bangladeshi nationals, actions that some argue were executed to suppress opposition rather than for genuine national security purposes. This track record of alleged violence against dissenting voices has cast a long shadow over his reputation, painting a picture of a figure willing to prioritize political aims over human rights and accountability. His actions, as reported, reflect a broader trend of militarizing Bangladesh’s political landscape, with the military under General Mujeeb’s tenure allegedly being used as a tool for political suppression. This approach not only strained the trust between citizens and the military but also contributed to a culture where political loyalty overshadowed justice and national duty.
The influence General Mujeeb wielded reportedly extended into financial domains as well. He has faced numerous allegations of corrupt practices, including amassing significant assets and properties under family members’ names, likely as a means of disguising his own involvement. There are also claims that he placed allies in lucrative business roles, reportedly receiving “gifts” in exchange for these appointments. One prominent example includes allegations that General Mujeeb’s foreign trips were financed through connections to the former Prime Minister herself, further underscoring the personal and financial entanglements within this high-profile relationship. Critics argue that this deep-seated favoritism fostered a culture of nepotism, wherein the resources and influence of the Bangladeshi military were misappropriated for personal and political gain, rather than for the public good.
As Bangladesh looks to the future, the legacy of General Mujeeb’s alleged alliances and actions serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of political entanglement within the military. The new government faces an essential task of restoring professionalism, trust, and transparency within the ranks, ensuring that the armed forces prioritize national interests over political and foreign influence. Reforms aimed at de-politicizing the military, promoting merit-based advancement, and curbing corruption will be necessary to counter the entrenched culture of favoritism that appears to have been fostered during General Mujeeb’s tenure. Additionally, increasing oversight and accountability in financial matters will help rebuild the public’s trust, which may have been eroded by the numerous allegations of misconduct and corruption. Moving forward, fostering an institutional culture grounded in national service, transparency, and a focus on the well-being of the Bangladeshi public will be key in ensuring that the military remains a force for national defense rather than political leverage. The lessons from this period must serve as a guidepost for the country as it seeks to establish a military that is as resilient and self-reliant as it is loyal to the interests of Bangladesh alone.