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Following the acceptance of Md. Shahabuddin’s resignation from the presidency due to physical illness, Jatiya Sangsad Speaker and Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmed has extended his wishes for the former president’s good health and well-being. He stated, “He resigned due to physical incapacity. I wish him well.”
The Speaker officially announced the President’s resignation at an emergency press conference held at the Parliament Secretariat on Friday afternoon (July 24).
He informed that President Md. Shahabuddin’s signed resignation letter reached him at 5:01 PM on Friday. In accordance with Article 50(3) of the Constitution, he accepted the resignation letter and, under Article 54, assumed the responsibilities of Acting President.
The Speaker stated, “I have accepted the resignation letter and instructed its preservation in the records of the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat and the initiation of necessary administrative procedures.”
Highlighting the reasons for the President’s resignation, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said that Md. Shahabuddin stated in writing in his resignation letter that he is suffering from serious health problems. For a long time, he has been afflicted with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney complications. He previously underwent bypass surgery on his heart. Recently, he was diagnosed with Autonomic Neuropathy, a condition that causes him to occasionally lose consciousness. Due to these physical and mental issues, it was no longer possible for him to fulfill the duties of President.
He further added, “The day I took oath as Speaker, I also took the oath to perform the duties of Acting President. Similarly, the Deputy Speaker also takes an oath to perform the Speaker’s duties if needed. This is part of the oath itself.”
Commenting on the outgoing President, the Speaker remarked, “I believe that even though he was elected during the era of a mafia government, he always remained supportive and respectful of the current government elected by the people.”
At the end of the press conference, the Speaker wished Md. Shahabuddin a long life, good health, and well-being.
It is noteworthy that Md. Shahabuddin was sworn in as the 22nd President of Bangladesh on April 24, 2023. He was elected unopposed with the nomination of the Awami League. Following his resignation, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed will serve as Acting President until a new president is elected in accordance with the Constitution. Concurrently, a new presidential election will be held within 90 days of the presidential office becoming vacant.