Government considering changing RAB name: Home Minister

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said that the government is considering changing the name of RAB to Elite Force or forming a new force. He said that if the elite force is formed with a new name or new structure, the US may reconsider the ban on RAB.
He said this at a program organized on the occasion of the 22nd founding anniversary of the force at the RAB headquarters in Kurmitola in the capital on Monday afternoon (May 18). The Home Minister said that an initiative has been taken to formulate a new law for RAB. That law will ensure the authority, responsibility, accountability and transparency of the force.
He said that although RAB is currently being operated under the Armed Police Battalion Act, it is not right to operate an elite force in this way. Therefore, a separate law will be formulated. He said that whether we will change the name of RAB or form a new elite force is still under consideration. However, transparency and accountability will be ensured.
In 2021, the United States imposed sanctions on seven former and current RAB officials on charges of human rights violations. In this context, the Home Minister said that RAB was damaged as an institution during the fascist era due to the actions of some officials. However, the responsibility of a few officials does not lie with the entire institution. He said that at that time, no institution – police, army, RAB, BGB – was above damage. Sheikh Hasina’s government used various institutions to achieve political objectives.
Salahuddin Ahmed also said that those involved in illegal activities must be held personally accountable. Instructions have been given to take action against them according to the relevant law. Regarding the new law, he said that an expert committee for RAB is working on the law and he is personally supervising the matter. The law will clearly define the responsibilities, powers and accountability structure of the force. Responding to a question on whether RAB will be abolished, the Home Minister said, “An elite force will definitely be needed to ensure public safety. Their equipment, logistics, training and other capabilities will be maintained.”