Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir Sworn In as Bangladesh’s 23rd President; Murmu Congratulates Him
Dhaka/New Delhi, Aug 22 : Veteran politician Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party's (BNP) longest-serving second-in-command, was sworn in as Bangladesh’s 23rd president at Bangabhaban on Friday, bringing to an end his nearly five-decade political career.
Jatiya Sangsad Acting Speaker Kayser Kamal administered the oath at around 7:35 pm local time at the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban, the official residence and office of the country’s head of state.
The ceremony was attended by outgoing acting president Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, former interim government chief adviser Md Yunus, Opposition Leader Shafiqur Rahman, cabinet members, political leaders and several hundred distinguished guests, including ambassadors and high commissioners.
Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani conducted the proceedings.
After taking office, Fakhrul administered the oath of office to the newly appointed members of the cabinet.
Fakhrul was elected by lawmakers on Thursday in an indirect presidential election, defeating opposition candidate Col (retd) Oli Ahmad. It was Bangladesh’s first presidential election since 1991.
Between 1996 and 2023, eight presidents were elected unopposed, with candidates backed by the ruling party securing the presidency each time.
Hafiz Uddin Ahmad had assumed the presidency in an acting capacity on July 24 following the resignation of Mohammed Shahabuddin, the Awami League-nominated president. His tenure as acting president was the shortest in Bangladesh’s history.
Meanwhile, Indian President Droupadi Murmu congratulated Fakhrul Islam on assuming office and expressed confidence that his extensive experience in public life and political leadership would contribute to a successful tenure in the service of Bangladesh’s people.
In an official letter, President Murmu highlighted the close ties between India and Bangladesh.
“India and Bangladesh share a unique relationship, rooted in a shared history of sacrifices, close cultural ties and warm bonds of friendship,” she said.
Murmu noted that bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries have expanded in recent years into several areas, including energy, technology, connectivity, youth affairs, health and education.
“I look forward to working with you to further strengthen the partnership between our two neighbouring countries,” she said.
The Indian President also conveyed her best wishes to Fakhrul for good health and happiness, the successful discharge of his responsibilities and the continued progress and prosperity of the people of Bangladesh.
