Bangladesh president resigns after citing serious health problems that prevent him from continuing in office. Mohammed Shahabuddin, a close ally of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, stepped down from the largely ceremonial post on Friday.
The 76-year-old confirmed the decision in a phone call. “Yes, I have resigned,” he told AFP when asked about growing speculation that he would leave before his term ends in 2028. He gave no extra comments at the time.
In a formal resignation letter sent to the speaker of parliament, Shahabuddin explained that his physical and mental health had worsened. “Due to worsening physical and mental incapacity it is no longer possible for me to properly discharge the responsibilities of an important constitutional office such as the presidency,” the letter stated.
Known widely as “Chuppu,” Shahabuddin was elected by parliament in 2023 with strong backing from Hasina’s Awami League. After a student-led uprising forced Hasina from power in 2024, pressure also grew for the president to leave his post.
He faced accusations of speaking by phone with Hasina while receiving medical treatment in London in May. Shahabuddin has denied those claims.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party said the government had not been informed of any resignation. “If he wants to resign, he would have to submit his resignation letter to the speaker in accordance with the Constitution,” the minister told reporters.
The sudden announcement has drawn attention across the country as Bangladesh continues to adjust after major political changes. Many now wait to see how parliament will handle the vacancy in the presidential office and what steps will follow next.
