The Palace-Confined President: 18 Months of Constitutional Isolation

The Palace-Confined President

18 Months of Constitutional Isolation

An analysis of President Mohammed Shahabuddin's exclusive account of the institutional standoff, the October 22 siege, and the silent power struggle within Bangabhaban.

The "Prashad-Bondi" Era

For a year and a half following the political upheaval, the President of Bangladesh describes a period of intense isolation. Despite holding the highest constitutional office, President Shahabuddin alleges he was systematically bypassed by the Interim Government, facing plots for removal and a total blackout of state communication. This infographic visualizes the data behind his claims of a "palace-confined" tenure.

Duration of Crisis

1.5

Years Isolated

Ordinances Passed

133

Without Consultation

Foreign Trips

0

Briefings Received

The Governance Gap

The Constitution mandates that the President be kept informed of state affairs. However, the data reveals a stark disconnect. While the Interim Government was legislatively active, passing over 100 ordinances, the President claims zero coordination meetings took place.

"He (Chief Advisor) did not come to me even once. He tried to keep me completely in the dark."

- President Shahabuddin

Legislative Activity vs. Executive Briefings

Source: Interview Transcript

Diplomatic Erasure

The President serves as the symbol of the state abroad. However, the interview alleges a deliberate attempt to erase this presence. Trips were blocked, letters were allegedly drafted to force refusals, and presidential portraits were removed from embassies overnight.

1

Kosovo Trip

Invitation for Keynote Address. BLOCKED.

2

Qatar Summit

State invitation. Ministry allegedly drafted a refusal letter citing "busy schedule." BLOCKED.

3

Portrait Removal

Portraits removed from High Commissions after an advisor expressed anger.

Bangabhaban Media Staff Removal

Silencing the Voice

Following a courtesy meeting with journalists, the President's Press Wing was systematically dismantled. Key personnel were withdrawn, leaving the office unable to issue even basic press releases.

• Press Secretary Removed
• Deputy & Assistant Removed
• 2 Photographers (30 years service) Removed

Timeline: The Night of the Siege (Oct 22, 2024)

A vivid reconstruction of the night Bangabhaban was surrounded, as described by the President.

Late Evening

The Encirclement

Various groups surround Bangabhaban. Security is fortified by the Army's 9th Division (3 layers).

The "Staged" Jump

Incident at the Wire

A protester jumps onto barbed wire, allegedly calling for cameras to "take pictures" for blackmail purposes. Removed by female police/army personnel.

12:00 AM Midnight

The Call from Nahid Islam

Information Advisor Nahid Islam calls: "They are not our people." Confirms efforts to disperse the mob.

02:00 AM - 03:00 AM

Control Established

APC (Armored Personnel Carriers) used to control the situation. Crowds disperse, though small groups remain demanding removal.

The Power Balance: Why He Stayed

While initiatives were taken to remove him—including an attempt to install a former Chief Justice—institutional support prevented a constitutional vacuum.

The Defenders

• 🛡️
  The Armed Forces

  "Your defeat is our defeat." The Chiefs of Staff pledged to prevent unconstitutional removal.

• 🤝
  BNP & Alliance

  Provided "100% support" for maintaining constitutional continuity.

• ⚖️
  Former Chief Justice

  Refused the offer to replace the President unconstitutionally.

The Pressure Sources

• 📢
  "Sudden" Movements

  Overnight groups demanding resignation and besieging Bangabhaban.

• 🏛️
  Interim Government Factions

  Alleged initiatives to remove him if political consensus was reached.

Data Source: Interview with President Mohammed Shahabuddin ("Kaler Kantho", February 2026).

Generated for educational purposes.