UN says Unficyp force commander remains in post

Nicosia, Cyprus. The United Nations has denied reports that Unficyp force commander Lieutenant General Mohammad Asadullah Minhazul Alam was removed from his post, stating that he remains in the role and continues his duties.

Unficyp spokesman Aleem Siddique said the mission was aware of media speculation concerning Alam’s status.

UN response

“For the avoidance of doubt, Lieutenant General Minhazul Alam remains the Unficyp force commander and continues to carry out his duties and responsibilities with the mission,” Siddique said.

He said the mission had noted a media report containing speculation about the commander’s position.

Reports of return to Bangladesh

Local media reports had claimed that Alam returned to Bangladesh after being withdrawn from the UN mission following complaints regarding his conduct towards subordinate officers.

According to the reports, Alam travelled from Cyprus to Bangladesh on September 4 on a commercial flight. His return was initially described as a personal visit during three days of leave.

The reports later suggested that his travel was linked to his removal from the mission.

Allegations

The reports said complaints were made by Alam’s aide and another officer serving with Unficyp. They allegedly related to behaviour described as harsh and inappropriate and were reportedly referred to UN psychiatric or medical services.

They also included allegations that Alam sought or obtained administrative privileges and took actions considered excessive concerning mission facilities.

The available reports did not provide full details of the complaints or establish whether they were formally investigated.