President Shahabuddin breaks silence, recounts pressure during interim period

Bangladesh’s President Mohammed Shahabuddin has spoken publicly for the first time in detail about what he described as a difficult period marked by political pressure, institutional tension and attempts to undermine constitutional continuity during the tenure of the interim government.

In an exclusive interview with Kaler Kantho at Bangabhaban, the President reflected on what he called a “year and a half of confinement” in which he claimed to have faced repeated attempts to remove him from office through political and institutional pressure.

He said numerous “conspiracies” were carried out against him during that period, including movements demanding his resignation and attempts to create what he described as a constitutional vacuum.

However, he asserted that none of those efforts succeeded because he remained steadfast in his position.

Recalling the night Bangabhaban was surrounded by protesters, the President said armed forces personnel provided layered security and maintained control of the situation.

He alleged that some demonstrators were “hired” and that certain incidents appeared staged for media attention. He claimed senior BNP leadership stood by him during the crisis and supported constitutional continuity.

The President also criticised the interim government for what he said was a lack of coordination with him on constitutional matters.

He alleged that he was not informed about foreign visits by the Chief Adviser and was excluded from official communications and publications.

He further claimed that his Press Wing was dismantled after a public meeting with journalists, leaving him unable to issue statements or messages in recent months.

According to him, staff members including press officials and photographers were withdrawn, effectively limiting communication from Bangabhaban.

The President also said attempts were made to replace him through unconstitutional means, including an alleged proposal to appoint a former chief justice, which he claimed failed after refusal.

He reiterated that despite pressure, he prioritised safeguarding constitutional continuity and stability during a politically turbulent period.