Meet General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the man in charge of Bangladesh after PM Sheikh Hasina’s resignation

After Sheikh Hasina resigned as the prime minister of Bangladesh and fled the country on Monday, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the Chief of Army Staff, stepped forward to announce the formation of an interim government. Addressing the nation from a podium with the world’s media capturing every moment, he declared, “I’m taking all responsibility (of the country). Please cooperate.”

Sheikh Hasina, aged 76, departed Ganabhaban, the official residence of the Bangladeshi Prime Minister, as protesters surged into the building.

In his military uniform, General Waker-Uz-Zaman appeared on state television, addressing the public with a solemn tone. “We will establish an interim government,” he confirmed, acknowledging Hasina’s resignation. “Our country has endured significant suffering — the economy is in turmoil, and many lives have been lost. It is crucial to end the violence. I hope my address today will contribute to restoring stability.”

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The Army chief said he had met political leaders and told them the Army would take over responsibility for law and order.

But, who is Waker-Uz-Zaman ?

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, who is set to succeed Sheikh Hasina as the head of state in Bangladesh, is a seasoned infantry officer with nearly four decades of military service. His career includes two tours as a UN peacekeeper and a notable tenure as Chief of Army Staff, a position he assumed in June, succeeding General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s extensive experience encompasses commanding 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.

He received his education at the Bangladesh Military Academy and pursued advanced studies at the Defence Services Command and Staff College in Mirpur and the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the UK. Additionally, he holds degrees in Defence Studies from the National University of Bangladesh and King’s College, University of London.

Previously, as the principal staff officer at the Armed Forces Division under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, General Waker-Uz-Zaman played a significant role in national defence strategies and international peacekeeping. His contributions to modernising the army have earned him the Army Medal of Glory (SGP) and the Extraordinary Service Medal (OSP).