Ouagadougou: President Mohammed Shahabuddin has submitted his resignation to Speaker of Parliament Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, citing health reasons. Shahabuddin, whose term was set to end in 2028, stated in his resignation letter that his deteriorating physical and mental condition prevented him from fulfilling the responsibilities of his office.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Constitution of Bangladesh mandates that the Speaker of Parliament will assume the role of acting president until a new election can be held. This measure is intended to ensure the smooth functioning of the state’s governance during the transition period.

Seventy-six-year-old Mohammed Shahabuddin became president in 2023 after being elected by the Bangladeshi parliament with backing from the Awami League party, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. His presidency faced challenges following the overthrow of Hasina’s government in a 2024 student uprising, which led to calls for his removal.

In the Bangladeshi political system, the president serves as head of state, a role that is largely ceremonial. The executive powers primarily lie with the prime minister and the government, with the president acting on their advice rather than making independent political decisions.