President Shahabuddin Set to Resign Today: Agency

President Mohammed Shahabuddin

President Mohammed Shahabuddin is expected to resign on Friday, according to an international news agency, marking a major constitutional development ahead of the country's next political transition.

The news agency, citing the President's Press Secretary Sarwar Alam, reported that Shahabuddin will submit his resignation after Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad returns from Thailand.

Under the Constitution, the President's resignation takes effect once a signed resignation letter is submitted to the Speaker. Until a new President is elected, the Speaker will discharge the duties of the office in an acting capacity.

The report said the President did not publicly state the reason for his resignation. However, three sources familiar with the matter said the government had urged him to step down, citing his long-standing political association with former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

The development comes days after Sheikh Hasina reportedly said she intends to return to Bangladesh later this year following her conviction by the International Crimes Tribunal.

President Shahabuddin, 76, was elected unopposed in April 2023 for a five-year term as the Awami League's nominee. His term was originally scheduled to continue until April 2028.

According to the news agency, Shahabuddin informed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman of his decision to resign earlier this week. The sources spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.

The President's office has not issued any detailed public statement beyond confirming the constitutional procedure for the resignation.

The presidency is largely a ceremonial office, with executive authority vested in the Prime Minister and the Cabinet. However, the position assumed greater significance during Bangladesh's political transition following the 2024 mass uprising.

If the resignation proceeds as expected, Parliament will elect a new President in accordance with constitutional provisions.