Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has resigned. The 76-year-old president, who has held the position since April 2023, stepped down on Friday, leaving office two years before his five-year term was meant to expire.
Shahabuddin cited health grounds for his departure. In a resignation letter, he stated that due to worsening physical and mental incapacity, it was no longer possible for him to properly discharge the responsibilities of the presidency.
A longtime ally of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Shahabuddin stepped down as speculation swirled over Hasina's possible return. Hasina, who fled to India after being ousted by youth protesters in August 2024, recently said she was returning home from exile to surrender.
Shahabuddin oversaw the country during the volatile period following the ouster of the prime minister until a caretaker government was formed days later. As the head of state, the president's role is largely ceremonial, with executive power resting with the prime minister and cabinet.