Speaker likely to return early from Thailand amid speculation over President's resignation

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad is likely to return home on Friday after cutting short his overseas visit to Thailand amid growing speculation over the resignation of President Mohammed Shahabuddin.

“The Speaker is likely to return home on Friday instead of Sunday next,” BNP's Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said on Thursday.

He said the Speaker left for Thailand on July 19 for medical treatment. “Although his return is originally scheduled for July 26, he is now expected to arrive in Dhaka at 12:40pm on July 24,” he added.

The Speaker's early return comes amid widespread speculation over the possible resignation of President Shahabuddin, although there has been no official confirmation from Bangabhaban, the government or the ruling party.

Under Article 54 of the Constitution, if the Office of the President falls vacant, the Speaker assumes the responsibilities of the President until a new one is elected.

As per the Constitution, if the President wants to resign, he needs to send a resignation letter to the Speaker.

If the President steps down, the Speaker shall take charge of acting President until the election of the next President.

As per Article 123(2) of the Constitution, a new President must be elected within 90 days of the office falling vacant due to death, resignation or removal, while Article 48(1) provides for the President's election through a vote by the members of parliament.

Shahabuddin took office on April 24, 2023, for a five-year term. However, speculation has intensified in recent days that he may resign before completing his tenure.