Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin resigns, cites ill health

Bangladesh's President Mohammed Shahabuddin has resigned from his largely ceremonial position, citing deteriorating health as the reason for his departure. The 76-year-old leader confirmed his resignation in a call with AFP, stating that his worsening physical and mental condition makes it impossible to continue in the role.

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Yes, I have resigned.

In a resignation letter submitted to the speaker of parliament, Shahabuddin elaborated on his inability to fulfill his duties. "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.

Shahabuddin, widely known as “Chuppu,” was elected by parliament in 2023 with the backing of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party. His resignation comes amid speculation about his plans to step down before his term officially ends in 2028.

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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.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed of the governing Bangladesh Nationalist Party stated on Thursday that the government was unaware of the president's resignation. He noted that according to the Constitution, the president must submit a resignation letter to the speaker of parliament if he wishes to step down.

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If he wants to resign, he would have to submit his resignation letter to the speaker in accordance with the Constitution.