Bangladesh government rejects calls to arrest former president Shahabuddin

Bangladesh has found no legal grounds to arrest former president Mohammed Shahabuddin despite public demonstrations demanding his detention, home minister Salahuddin Ahmed said.

Ahmed said Shahabuddin would receive all security arrangements and other entitlements guaranteed under law. The Special Security Force and President’s Guard Regiment will provide protection for six months, supported by police and other security agencies.

“There is nothing that we see as grounds for arresting the former president,” Ahmed told journalists.

He said citizens have the right to express opinions and hold peaceful protests, but authorities had found no statement requiring government action.

Ahmed said Shahabuddin carried out his presidential responsibilities under constitutional provisions and was protected by presidential immunity for official actions. Any allegations involving conduct outside his official duties would be addressed according to law, he said.