Why army was deployed in Bangladesh

Bangladesh President Iajuddin Ahmed has said that the deteriorating law and order situation caused by preoccupation of law enforcement agencies in tackling the political situation demanded the armed forces' deployment.

"The assistance of the armed forces for the civil administration has been needed to protect the life and property of the people, keep alive the economic activities, siege illegal weapons and prevent terrorist activities," he said in a televised speech on Sunday.

"I have discussed the matter with the honourable advisers," he said.

In his 30-minute speech, Iajuddin criticised the Awami League-led 14 party alliance saying: "Even after the fulfillment of their demands through discussions they continued to raise newer demands."

He, however, said: "Congenial election atmosphere has been created in the country with the steps taken to correct the voters list, change in the administrative set up and reconstitute the election commission."

"I hope in continuation of the process the existing differences between the political parties will be resolved and with the cooperation of all we will be able to present a fair election to the countrymen," the president said. 

Meanwhile, the 14-party alliance in Bangladesh led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that it will hold nationwide demonstrations on Tuesday demanding electoral reforms ahead of next month's polls despite the deployment of army to maintain order.

Protesting against President Ijauddin Ahmed's Sunday night speech, AL General Secretary Abdul Jalil likened him to former Pakistan ruler Yahya Khan.

"The speech seemed to be one delivered by late Pakistani President General Yahya Khan as he tried to misguide the people based on lies," Jalil said.

Khan unleashed one of the worst genocides in history that cost three million lives to suppress the 1971 independence war for Bangladesh, the former East Pakistan.

"We plan to hold peaceful protests across the country to press for reforms that will make the upcoming polls free and fair," he said.