In an exclusive interview withKaler Kontho, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin revealed that he was kept under virtual house arrest at Bangabhaban for 18 months during Muhammad Yunus’ interim regime. Shahabuddin stated he was barred from traveling abroad, even for essential medical appointments in Singapore and London, while Yunus undertook multiple foreign trips as chief adviser.
He detailed how his participation in longstanding presidential Eid traditions at the National Eidgah Maidan was obstructed, and claimed the regime sought to mentally pressure him into resigning to install a loyalist and manipulate the political landscape. Shahabuddin clarified that despite his previous statements expressing frustration, he has no intention of leaving office before his term ends in 2028 unless requested by the elected government.
The former interim government, led by Yunus from August 2024, faced public protests that toppled the previous administration, and Shahabuddin’s revelations highlight alleged constitutional and personal overreach during that period.