Bangladesh president quits, leaving Hasina isolated ahead of return from exile
Mohammed Shahabuddin was pressured to step aside because of his long-standing ties to the former prime minister, sources say
The president’s office is a largely ceremonial post and Shahabuddin is quitting much before the end of his tenure in April 2028. The decision comes after Hasina announced her plan to return in December to surrender following a court conviction.
“As a result of his illnesses, it is no longer possible for him to discharge his duties. He needs treatment and rest,” said Sarwar Alam, press secretary to the president.
Shahabuddin remained in office after Hasina was ousted in August 2024, following mass youth protests, overseeing a transition that culminated in elections bringing Tarique Rahman to power.
Alam did not give a reason for Shahabuddin’s resignation, but three sources familiar with the matter said the government had pressed him to step aside because of his long-standing ties to Hasina after the former prime minister announced that she planned to return to Bangladesh.