Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, has assumed the responsibilities of Acting President in accordance with the Constitution after accepting the resignation of President Mohammed Shahabuddin.
Speaking at a press conference in the oath room of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Friday, the Speaker said Mohammed Shahabuddin submitted his signed resignation letter at 5:01 pm under Article 50(3) of the Constitution.
“Under Article 50(3) of the Constitution, President Mohammed Shahabuddin submitted his signed letter of resignation to the Speaker at 5:01pm on Friday. After accepting the resignation, I have assumed the responsibilities of the President in accordance with Article 54 of the Constitution,” he said.
The Speaker said the outgoing President cited serious health complications in his resignation letter, including heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and kidney-related ailments. He added that Mohammed Shahabuddin had previously undergone coronary bypass surgery and was recently diagnosed with autonomic neuropathy, a condition that occasionally causes him to lose consciousness.
Referring to the contents of the letter, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad said: “Due to these physical complications and resulting mental incapacity, it has become impossible for him to discharge his constitutional responsibilities as President. He has, therefore, resigned as he requires long-term medical treatment.”
He said the Constitution ensures continuity in the office of the President, adding that the oath taken by the Speaker also authorises him to discharge the responsibilities of Acting President whenever required. He added that if the office of the Speaker becomes vacant, the Deputy Speaker will perform the Speaker's duties in line with constitutional provisions.
Addressing public debate over the resignation, the Speaker said it was now evident that Mohammed Shahabuddin had stepped down solely because of his health condition. He wished the former President a speedy recovery and good health.
Responding to questions from journalists, Hafiz Uddin Ahmad said a President could become ill and that the written resignation clearly explained the medical reasons behind the decision.
“In such a case, no additional medical certificate is required,” he said, expressing hope that the resignation would end the confusion, speculation and uncertainty surrounding the issue.
He also stressed that the office of the President never remains vacant under the Constitution.
“As the Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad, I accepted the resignation and have accordingly begun discharging the responsibilities of the President,” he said.
Jatiya Sangsad Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam, Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal and senior officials of the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat were present at the press conference.
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