Bangladesh President Shahabuddin Plans Midterm Resignation

Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced his intention to resign following the February parliamentary elections. Shahabuddin, feeling humiliated by the interim government under Muhammad Yunus, cited removal of presidential portraits globally as a significant issue affecting his decision.

In a surprising political development, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin revealed on Thursday his intention to resign midway through his term. The veteran politician's decision comes after feeling sidelined by the interim government, currently led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

Despite holding the ceremonial position as head of Bangladesh's armed forces, Shahabuddin's role had taken on greater importance following a student-led uprising that forced long-standing premier Sheikh Hasina to seek refuge in New Delhi. This left Shahabuddin as the highest constitutional authority following the dissolution of parliament in August 2024.

After being elected unopposed in 2023 under the Awami League, Shahabuddin expressed frustration over Yunus' lack of communication and the removal of his portraits from embassies worldwide. These moves, he said, sent a wrong message to the public about his presidency. Attempts to address these grievances with Yunus have remained unanswered, intensifying Shahabuddin's sense of humiliation.

(With inputs from agencies.)