Army Identifies Misinformation as Key Threat Ahead of Elections

In an unprecedented security measure for Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary elections, the Army has deployed 100,000 troops—more than double the number used in previous elections—citing the spread of misinformation on social media as the “biggest threat” to the electoral process.

Speaking at a press conference at Gulistan’s Roller Skating Complex on Thursday, Brigadier General Dewan Mohammad Monzur Hossain, director of the Military Operations Directorate, called for public cooperation in combating false information, particularly concerning the misuse of artificial intelligence technologies.

“Disinformation is being spread to portray candidates or political parties negatively, discourage voter turnout, question institutional neutrality, or magnify minor incidents to create public fear,” Brig Gen Hossain explained. “We need your assistance in preventing this propaganda. Objective, factual, and timely news will help counter falsehoods and misinformation.”

The Army’s expanded role in this election marks a significant shift in security strategy. For the first time, military personnel will extend their presence to polling center premises, not just distant strategic locations as in previous elections. This change aims to ensure voters can reach polling stations and cast their ballots without intimidation or fear.

When questioned about the substantial increase in troop deployment compared to previous elections, which typically involved around 40,000-42,000 personnel, Brig Gen Hossain clarified: “The difference this time is that the armed forces have been allowed to go up to the polling centre premises, which was not the case before. Previously, we were positioned at distant locations as a striking force.”

The Army has established 544 temporary camps across 62 districts, covering 411 Upazilas and metropolitan areas. According to military officials, deployment decisions were based on comprehensive threat assessments for different regions.

Addressing concerns raised by a Transparency International Bangladesh report about violence and killings despite military presence, Brig Gen Hossain noted that initial incidents occurred when only 35,000 troops were deployed. “Would the situation have improved or worsened if we were not there?” he asked, suggesting that Bangladesh’s dense population makes even 100,000 troops “truly inadequate” for complete coverage.

The brigadier general reported that violence has notably decreased since the full deployment of 100,000 troops after January 20. In the past two weeks, security forces have recovered more than 150 weapons and arrested 22,320 identified criminals who have been transferred to police custody.

Military officials emphasized that their expanded presence has bolstered public confidence in the electoral process. The Army leadership has deployed what they describe as the minimum necessary force to ensure voter safety while maintaining election credibility.

The heightened security measures come as Bangladesh navigates a politically sensitive election period, with authorities increasingly concerned about digital misinformation campaigns that could undermine electoral integrity or trigger unrest. The Army’s focus on social media disinformation highlights growing recognition of how digital platforms can influence electoral outcomes in a country with rapidly expanding internet access.

As election day approaches, the intersection of technology, security, and democratic processes remains at the forefront of Bangladesh’s national conversation, with military leadership taking an unusually public role in addressing these challenges.