DHAKA : Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today stressed the need for merit-based promotion in the Bangladesh Army, rising above personal preferences or political considerations to build a modern and professional force.

"In order to build a modern and professional army, the highest importance should be given to merit, professional competence, integrity, moral character, leadership qualities and discipline in promotions, rising above personal liking and disliking or political considerations," he said.

The Prime Minister put the emphasis at the inaugural ceremony of the Army Headquarters Selection Board-2026 at the Dhaka Cantonment here this morning, said Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony.

After inaugurating the selection board, he said, the Prime Minister delivered a directional speech at the event as the chief guest.

In his address, Tarique Rahman recalled with deep respect the contribution of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of the country's independence, for reorganising and modernising the Bangladesh Army.

He also gratefully remembered the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the Great War of Liberation in 1971, the war-wounded freedom fighters, and the members of the country's armed forces for their contributions.

The Prime Minister also paid deep respect to the army personnel who embraced martyrdom while performing duties in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).

Lauding the role of the Bangladesh Army in safeguarding the country's independence and sovereignty, the Prime Minister said alongside national security, the army has been making significant contributions to maintaining internal law and order, disaster response and providing assistance to the civil administration.

Tarique Rahman thanked the Chief of Army Staff and all members of the force for their contributions to this end.

Earlier in the morning, the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of General Staff (CGS) welcomed the Prime Minister upon his arrival at the Army Headquarters.

The Army Chief expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for attending the ceremony and inaugurating the Selection Board.

After the ceremony, the Prime Minister joined a photo session with army officers and wrote his remarks in the Army Visitor's Book.