Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad has assumed the role of acting president following Mohammed Shahabuddin’s resignation from the presidency on health grounds.
The speaker took charge under Article 54 of the Constitution after receiving and accepting Shahabuddin’s resignation letter on Friday.
Hafiz Uddin Ahmad confirmed the development at a press briefing held at the National Parliament’s oath-taking hall.
The Speaker said he had received the president’s resignation letter, which has been accepted.
He added that the document has been sent for preservation in the records of the National Parliament Secretariat and that necessary administrative measures have been initiated.
Speaking about the reason behind the resignation, the Speaker said Shahabuddin was suffering from several serious health conditions.
In his resignation letter, the president cited heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney complications. He also mentioned that he had undergone bypass surgery.
The Speaker said recent medical examinations found that Shahabuddin had developed autonomic neuropathy, a condition that can cause temporary loss of consciousness.
“Due to the worsening of these illnesses and physical and mental incapacity, it is no longer possible for him to carry out the responsibilities of such an important constitutional office as the presidency,” Hafiz Uddin Ahmad said, adding that the former president requires long-term treatment.
Explaining the constitutional process behind his assumption of office, the acting president said he had taken an oath to perform the duties of acting president when he was sworn in as speaker, as provided by the Constitution.
He added that the deputy speaker’s oath also includes a provision allowing them to take over the speaker’s responsibilities if the position falls vacant.
Addressing speculation surrounding Shahabuddin’s resignation, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad said the decision was solely due to the president’s health condition.
“Since this afternoon, I have heard various discussions in the country. But the actual fact is that he resigned because of his physical inability,” he said.
The Speaker wished Shahabuddin good health and prayed for his wellbeing.
Referring to Shahabuddin’s election during the previous government’s tenure, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad said that although he was elected at that time, the former president had shown support and respect for the government formed through the people’s vote.
