Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed on Friday said he was unaware of the ongoing discussions and speculation surrounding the possible resignation of President Mohammed Shahabuddin.
Speaking to reporters after arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, the speaker said he had been outside the country for the past few days and therefore had no knowledge of any developments regarding the president’s reported resignation.
Hafiz Uddin travelled to Bangkok on 19 July for a personal medical check-up. He returned to Bangladesh on Friday, two days earlier than scheduled, amid growing speculation over the president’s future.
According to a statement issued by the Parliament Secretariat’s Public Relations, the speaker arrived in Dhaka from Bangkok at around 12:15pm.
His early return has further fuelled speculation over the president’s possible resignation.
Under the Constitution, the president must submit a resignation letter to the speaker. The speaker is also required to perform the functions of president until a new head of state is elected if the office becomes vacant.
Political discussions over Shahabuddin’s possible resignation have intensified in recent days, with various sources suggesting he may step down soon.
Mohammed Shahabuddin assumed office as president on 24 April 2023 for a five-year term, which is due to expire in April 2028.
