Bangladesh president resigns, citing ill health

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin resigned from the largely ceremonial post on Friday, citing ill health.

Shahabuddin, a close ally of former premier Sheikh Hasina, confirmed he was stepping down when asked about speculation that he planned to leave before completing his term, which was due to end in 2028. He said, "Yes, I have resigned," and did not give further details.

A resignation letter to the speaker of parliament cited deteriorating health. The letter said that because of worsening physical and mental incapacity, Shahabuddin was no longer able to properly carry out the responsibilities of the presidency.

Shahabuddin, 76, is widely known as Chuppu. He was elected by parliament in 2023 with support from Hasina's Awami League.

After a student revolt ousted Hasina in 2024, calls grew for Shahabuddin to be removed as well. He was accused of speaking to Hasina by phone while receiving medical treatment in London in May, an allegation he has denied.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed of the governing Bangladesh Nationalist Party said Thursday that the government was not aware of the president having submitted his resignation. He said that if Shahabuddin wanted to resign, he would have to submit a resignation letter to the speaker in line with the Constitution.