Bangladesh President Shahabuddin resigns, cites reasons

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has resigned from office, saying he can no longer carry out his duties because of his worsening health.

The 76 year old confirmed his resignation during a phone call with AFP after reports emerged that he planned to step down before the end of his term in 2028.

In his resignation letter to the Speaker of Parliament, Shahabuddin said his physical and mental health had deteriorated, making it impossible for him to continue serving as president.

He wrote that he was no longer able to properly perform the responsibilities of the country’s highest constitutional office.

Shahabuddin, popularly known as “Chuppu”, was elected president by parliament in 2023 with the backing of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League.

Following the student led uprising that forced Hasina from office in 2024, there were growing calls for Shahabuddin to resign because of his close ties to her administration.

Earlier this year, he was accused of speaking with Hasina while receiving medical treatment in London, but he denied the allegation.

Just a day before the resignation was confirmed, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the government had not received any resignation letter from the president.

He added that under the Constitution, the president must submit such a letter to the Speaker of Parliament if he wishes to leave office.