Bangladesh's President Shahabuddin likely to resign soon: Reports
Dhaka, July 23
Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin is likely to resign soon, with local media and political sources indicating that he may cite health grounds for his departure.
Reports in Bangladeshi media and independent disclosures have fueled speculation of an imminent change at Bangabhaban. Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani is among those being named as a possible successor to the top post.
On Thursday, Jamuna TV reported in a breaking news update that Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin is expected to resign on Friday.
Bangladesh's leading daily Prothom Alo reported that, according to its sources, President Mohammed Shahabuddin may resign due to health reasons.
More recently, Zulkarnain Saer, a UK-based Bangladeshi journalist, claimed on social media that President Mohammed Shahabuddin could resign, and that the government may name current Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani as the president's successor.
"Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin is expected to resign within the next few days, reportedly on health grounds. Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani has emerged on the shortlist of potential successors -- a surprising development, given that no senior @bdbnp78 leader appears to be under consideration", Zulkarnain Saer, who is known as Sami, wrote on X.
After that, Bangladesh's mainstream newspapers also picked up the report and continued to spread it.
Under Articles 50 and 54 of Bangladesh's Constitution, should President Shahabuddin tender his resignation to the Speaker of Parliament, the Speaker will immediately step in as Acting President.
The Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament) will subsequently be required to vote and elect a new President within 90 days to serve out the remaining presidential term.
Mohammed Shahabuddin was sworn in as the President of the People's Republic of Bangladesh on April 24, 2023. He was elected unopposed as the ruling Awami League's nominee. His five-year term is scheduled to end in April 2028.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone from the West, I find this power transition fascinating. Bangladesh's political stability is crucial for the region. Hope the health reason is genuine.
Cabinet Secretary as successor? That's unusual. Usually they pick a political figure. This just adds to the uncertainty in Bangladesh. Our neighbor's stability directly affects us in West Bengal.
I hope President Shahabuddin's health improves soon. Resignation mid-term is rare in our subcontinental politics. This could be a test for Bangladeshi democracy. Praying for stability. 🙏
Interesting constitutional mechanism with the Speaker taking over temporarily. This would be done smoothly in a parliamentary democracy. Let's see how Bangladesh handles it.
I'm a bit skeptical about these "health grounds" resignations. Happens too often in South Asian politics when there's pressure. But let's give benefit of doubt. Bangladesh has done well economically. Hope this doesn't disrupt that.
The fact that no opposition leader is being considered is telling. But constitutional processes are clear. India must maintain good ties regardless of who's in Bangabhaban. Our shared history and culture demand it. 🌏
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