Bangladesh President Resigns, Leaving Hasina Isolated Ahead of Return from Exile

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin, a former ally of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is resigning on Friday halfway through his term, according to his spokesman Sarwar Alam. The resignation, which removes the last high-office ally of Hasina, comes as the former prime minister announced her plan to return to Bangladesh in December to surrender after a court conviction. Shahabuddin remained in office after Hasina was ousted in August 2024 following mass youth protests, overseeing a transition that culminated in elections bringing Tarique Rahman to power. His resignation as head of state and commander-in-chief of the armed forces would leave Hasina with no allies in high office five months before her planned return.

Shahabuddin’s press secretary cited health reasons, saying, “As a result of his illnesses, it is no longer possible for him to discharge his duties. He needs treatment and rest.” However, three sources familiar with the matter said the government had pressed him to step aside because of his long-standing ties to Hasina after she announced her intention to return. The Awami League party is banned, and many of its leaders and activists have been jailed or gone into hiding since the deadly student-led uprising toppled her government in 2024. Shahabuddin’s resignation further isolates Hasina and weakens any remaining political support for her return.