President Shahabuddin set to resign today: Reuters

President Mohammed Shahabuddin is expected to resign on Friday (July 24), according to a report by international news agency Reuters, citing the President's spokesperson and multiple sources familiar with the matter.

According to the report, the President's resignation will take effect once he submits a signed resignation letter to the Speaker of Parliament, as required by the Constitution. However, the Speaker is currently on an official visit to Thailand, and the letter is expected to be submitted upon the Speaker's return. The President's spokesperson did not disclose the reason behind the decision.

Reuters, citing three sources familiar with the matter, reported that the government had pressured Shahabuddin to step down due to his long-standing association with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The report also noted that Sheikh Hasina recently told Reuters she intends to return to Bangladesh in December to surrender before the court.

Under the Constitution, if the office of the President becomes vacant, the Speaker of Parliament will perform the duties of the President until a new head of state is elected.

Reuters further said calls to remove individuals considered close to Sheikh Hasina from key state positions have intensified following her announcement. The report added that the Awami League's political activities remain banned, while many of its leaders and activists have either been arrested or gone into hiding following the 2024 mass uprising.

Mohammed Shahabuddin, 76, was elected unopposed as Bangladesh's President in 2023 for a five-year term with the nomination of the Awami League.

According to Reuters, Shahabuddin informed Prime Minister Tarique Rahman of his decision to resign on Tuesday. However, no official statement has yet been issued by the President's Office regarding the reported resignation.