No separate probe into former president Shahabuddin: Bangladesh Bank

Bangladesh Bank has said it has no plans to conduct any separate inquiry or investigation targeting recently resigned President Mohammed Shahabuddin. However, the central bank has stated that if evidence of his involvement in any ongoing or past investigation is found, necessary action will be taken according to the law .

Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson for the central bank, briefed journalists at the Bangladesh Bank on Sunday (July 26) .

He stated that Mohammed Shahabuddin had constitutionally served in the country's highest office, and therefore, there are no plans for a separate investigation focused on him . However, various institution-specific investigations are ongoing to ensure good governance in the banking sector . If these investigations uncover evidence of irregularities or involvement by any individual or institution, action will be taken in accordance with existing laws and regulations .

Mohammed Shahabuddin resigned from the presidency on Friday, citing health reasons . He left Bangabhaban on Sunday and moved to his personal residence in Gulshan .

Meanwhile, several political parties, including the National Citizen Party (NCP), have been demanding the arrest of the former president . However, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has stated that the government does not see any grounds to act on these demands .

Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat on Sunday, he said political parties can raise allegations, but the government has so far not found any information worth considering . He further noted that the president enjoys special constitutional protection and immunity while in office . Even after resignation, he will continue to receive state security and protection benefits for a specified period as per the law .

Mohammed Shahabuddin served as president for approximately three years and three months before resigning on Friday, following the post-July 2024 student-people's uprising .