President Mohammad Shahabuddin’s Survival With BNP Support

Following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024, Bangladesh entered a period of intense political flux. Administrative offices, including the Supreme Court, underwent sweeping changes. Amid this upheaval, Mohammad Shahabuddin, elected president during the Awami League government, managed to retain his position—a development that has intrigued political observers.

During this transitional phase, the country’s Chief Justice resigned, and Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury reportedly went into an unknown location before later stepping down. Meanwhile, despite at least two attempts to pressure President Shahabuddin to resign—including protests and symbolic encirclements of the Bangabhaban—the president remained in office. Following the parliamentary elections on 12 February 2025, he administered the oath to the newly elected Prime Minister on 17 February, underscoring his continuing constitutional role.

In an interview with Kaler Kantho, President Shahabuddin revealed the secret to his political survival: "During my difficult times, the BNP’s support was absolute." He also alleged that even within the interim government there were efforts to remove him, but the BNP and the armed forces provided reassurance and support.

He further criticised the interim government’s chief adviser and the presidential press wing for obstructing the normal functions of his office. Complaints included being kept uninformed about foreign visits and agreements, as well as the removal of the president’s portrait from overseas missions without his knowledge. When contacted, former members of the adviser’s press wing declined to comment.

Key Chronology and Data

Political analysts say BNP’s rationale was rooted in preserving stability. Dr. Khondkar Mosharraf Hossain, a senior BNP figure, later admitted that he was unaware of all discussions regarding the president’s fate. Another senior committee member, speaking anonymously, explained that the party aimed to prevent any constitutional vacuum that could destabilise the country during the transition.

Political commentator Mohiuddin Ahmed told BBC Bangla, "The BNP did not want elections jeopardised. The quicker the election, the better their prospects. This explains why they opposed removing the president."

In October 2024, following public demands for Shahabuddin’s resignation, BNP leaders met with the chief adviser to discuss the issue. Senior members emphasised that abrupt removal of the president would create a constitutional void and potentially delay national elections.

President Shahabuddin also revealed that efforts to remove him were partly driven by civil unrest and pressure from activist groups. BNP leaders and their allies, however, collectively prevented these moves. "The BNP and its allies acted as one group; another group tried, but ultimately they failed. The larger party’s stance compelled the government to back down," he said.

He highlighted the support of the three armed forces, who assured him that his defeat would equate to a defeat for the entire military, a scenario they would prevent at all costs. Shahabuddin described this period as extraordinarily challenging but noted that the BNP leadership remained steadfast, assuring him of constitutional continuity. He added, "I had initial doubts about Tarique Rahman, but I gradually realised he was extremely sincere. His support, and that of the BNP, was wholehearted."

The interim period thus illustrates how the BNP, prioritising constitutional stability and rapid electoral process, played a decisive role in preserving the presidency during one of Bangladesh’s most volatile political transitions.