Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin Plans Mid-Term Resignation, Cites Humiliation by Interim Government Led by Muhammad Yunus

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has announced his intention to resign midway through his five-year term, following the country’s upcoming parliamentary election in February 2026. In an interview with Reuters from his official residence in Dhaka, Shahabuddin, 75, said he felt humiliated by the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus and described his decision to step down as a personal choice after months of being sidelined.

Although the presidency in Bangladesh is largely ceremonial, with executive authority resting with the prime minister and cabinet, Shahabuddin’s position became particularly significant during the political crisis in August 2024. A student-led uprising forced long-time Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to flee to New Delhi, leaving Shahabuddin as the last constitutional authority after the dissolution of parliament. He had been elected unopposed in 2023 as a nominee of Hasina’s Awami League party, which is barred from contesting the February 12 elections.

Shahabuddin detailed his grievances, noting that Yunus had not met with him for nearly seven months, his press department had been removed, and in September 2025, his portraits were taken down from Bangladeshi embassies worldwide. He said this action sent a wrong message to the public and made him feel “very much humiliated.” Shahabuddin added that despite writing to Yunus about the portraits, no corrective measures were taken, leaving him feeling that his voice had been stifled.

The president emphasized that he would continue to hold office until the elections, in accordance with the constitution, but expressed eagerness to step down afterward. Yunus’ press advisers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

This development highlights growing tensions within Bangladesh’s political landscape as the country approaches a critical election, raising questions about the interim government’s handling of constitutional authority and the role of the presidency during times of political transition.