Mohammed Shahabuddin has become the 22nd president of Bangladesh, succeeding Abdul Hamid, whose tenure ended on Sunday. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.While the president's duties are largely symbolic, they become critical during general elections, as the president is responsible for appointing the prime minister and serving as the constitutional protector of the nation.The ruling Awami League and its main opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, have been experiencing growing differences over the electoral system ahead of Bangladesh's general elections, scheduled for December or January next year.
Shahabuddin, a retired district judge, believes it is the responsibility of the Election Commission to create an encouraging atmosphere for voters and expects the independent constitutional body to play its due role. After assuming his office, he plans to review the political situation and assess if he needs to play any role in minimizing disputes between political parties.
Shahabuddin, who was elected unopposed as president in February of this year, is a former leader of the Awami League's student and youth wings and participated in the 1971 Liberation War. After being imprisoned following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, he was eventually inducted into the country's judicial service. After his judicial career, Shahabuddin entered politics and became a member of the Awami League Advisory Council. His wife, Rebeka Sultana, had previously served as a joint secretary of the government, and the couple has a son.
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