CA urges SSF to act professionally, rising above political affiliations

Chief Adviser Urges SSF to Uphold Professionalism Above Political Ideologies

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today called on members of the Special Security Force (SSF) to discharge their duties with utmost professionalism, remaining above political ideologies.

"...while ensuring the security of state-designated VIPs, it is crucial to uphold core values such as integrity, discipline, honesty, responsibility, and human compassion alongside professional skills. You must always act professionally, keeping yourselves above all political influences," he told SSF personnel at a ceremony held at the Chief Adviser’s Office (CAO).

The event marked the 39th founding anniversary of the SSF. Director General Major General Mahbubus Samad Chowdhury spoke on the occasion, alongside other dignitaries including Home Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, chiefs of the three services, the Chief Adviser’s principal secretary, principal coordinator on SDG affairs, press secretary, the inspector general of police, and senior government officials.

Acknowledging that necessary security measures often result in public inconvenience, Prof Yunus urged the SSF to minimize disruptions wherever possible. He cited his decision to lift the longstanding practice of halting all flight operations at Shahjalal International Airport for VIP movements — a measure that previously delayed flights for nearly an hour — as a step towards reducing public hardship.

"I hope this change will ease the suffering of ordinary passengers. The SSF must carry out its duties not in isolation from the public, but through balancing security with public relations," he said.

Highlighting the SSF's broad responsibilities, the Chief Adviser noted that the force is entrusted with the security of Bangabhaban, his residence, office, and movements. It also plays a critical role in safeguarding various events across Dhaka and other parts of the country.

Prof Yunus praised the SSF’s successful operations in securing high-profile locations such as Cox’s Bazar, the Rohingya camps, Chittagong Port, and the Chittagong University convocation he attended. "The SSF has also effectively coordinated with foreign embassies and security agencies during my state visits abroad, ensuring smooth and secure engagements," he added.

He further lauded the SSF for managing security during the recent visits of the Malaysian Prime Minister, the President of East Timor, and the United Nations Secretary-General to Bangladesh.

In the context of rapidly evolving security challenges driven by technological advancement and information exchange, Prof Yunus acknowledged that providing absolute security has become increasingly complex. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in the SSF’s ability to regularly assess emerging threats and adapt accordingly.

Highlighting recent developments, Prof Yunus noted the SSF’s efforts in strengthening cybersecurity at the State Guest House Jamuna and expressed hope for similar enhancements at the Chief Adviser’s Office. "As a professional force, I trust the SSF will continue to grow by adopting advanced training, cutting-edge technology, and fostering high morale," he said.

He welcomed the ongoing modernization of the force’s training, weaponry, and equipment, mentioning plans to upgrade the 12-year-old VHF Radio Communication System with a modern UHF system to boost operational efficiency.

Recognizing the SSF's reliance on collaboration with various law enforcement bodies, armed forces, the Presidential Guard Regiment, and intelligence agencies, Prof Yunus stressed the importance of maintaining strong inter-agency coordination and cooperation.

Expressing his appreciation, Prof Yunus thanked the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and Ansar for providing capable officers to the SSF. "I am especially grateful to the Bangladesh Army for offering diverse training support to help transform the SSF into a modern, professional security force," he concluded.