The government will decide on the President’s future following discussions with political parties

Interim Government to Decide on President's Future Following Consultations

The interim government will determine whether President Mohammed Shahabuddin will continue in his role after engaging in discussions with political parties. This approach was agreed upon at an advisory council meeting led by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Thursday.

Advisor Confirms Dialogue with Political Parties

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Advisor for Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Affairs, confirmed that dialogue on the President’s position has already commenced with various political parties. The final decision on the matter will depend on the outcomes of these discussions.

BNP Leaders Meet with Chief Adviser

As part of these consultations, three Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders met with the Chief Adviser at the state guesthouse Jamuna in Dhaka on Wednesday. BNP reportedly advised against the President's immediate resignation, arguing that such a move could lead to a constitutional and political crisis by leaving the position vacant. This position arose after a political magazine reported that President Shahabuddin allegedly stated he lacked documented evidence of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, sparking public debate and protest.

Public Protests and Student Demands for Removal

In response to the controversy, groups such as Students Against Discrimination held demonstrations in Dhaka and other areas on Tuesday, calling for the President’s removal. A group under the Inqilab Mancha banner staged a protest in front of Bangabhaban, the President’s official residence, later that night.

Law Adviser Criticizes President’s Statements

On Monday, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul accused President Shahabuddin of providing misleading statements regarding Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, comparing it to a breach of his official oath. Nazrul noted that on August 5, the President had publicly acknowledged receiving the resignation letter from Hasina during a nationwide address, adding to the ongoing debate.

Advisory Council's First Official Discussion on President's Role

For the first time, the advisory council formally addressed the issue on Thursday, with multiple advisers noting pressure from student groups demanding the President's resignation. Some political parties, however, have expressed concerns that removing the President could trigger a constitutional crisis. 

This nuanced situation reflects diverging opinions among stakeholders, highlighting the challenges in balancing public and political interests as the interim government navigates this complex issue.