United News of Bangladesh

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Saturday emphasised that widespread public awareness and strict enforcement of the law are crucial to prevent tobacco addiction and protect public health.  In a message marking the ‘World No-Tobacco Day’, President Shahabuddin said Tobacco cultivation, processing and the use of tobacco products are extremely harmful to public health, the environment and the economy. "Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of various life-threatening diseases, including cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes,” he said. He said nearly 200,000 people die every year in Bangladesh from tobacco-related diseases, which put a heavy burden on families and impede national development. “Many young people are becoming addicted to smoking due to the attractive promotional campaigns of tobacco companies,” he added. The President expressed the hope that the proper implementation and strict enforcement of the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) (Amendment) Act, 2026 would play an important role in protecting women, children and the younger generation from the harmful effects of tobacco. He urged the administration, civil society, relevant organisations and the mass-media to work in a coordinated manner to raise awareness against tobacco use. He wished every success to all programmes undertaken on the occasion the ‘World No-Tobacco Day 2026’.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has issued a message on the occasion of the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, paying his deepest respect to his immortal memory. “On this solemn day, I respectfully and gratefully remember the outstanding contributions of this heroic commander of the Liberation War, proclaimer of independence, pioneer of multi-party democracy, architect of modern Bangladesh, and visionary statesman,” he said. Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman remains an unforgettable name in the history of Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty, and democratic progress, Shahabuddin said. In the early hours of 26 March 1971, this brave soldier called upon the nation to engage in armed resistance against the Pakistani occupation forces, he said. “His call and declaration of independence showed a path of hope to a bewildered nation and inspired people from all walks of life to unite and actively participate in the Liberation War. In recognition of his extraordinary bravery, military strategy, and contribution to the war, he was awarded the title of ‘Bir Uttam’.” The President said after independence, political instability, the curtailment of civil liberties and freedom of speech, widespread anarchy, corruption, and looting brought the state structure close to collapse. “At such a critical moment, against the backdrop of the joint revolution of soldiers and people, the responsibility of leading the country was entrusted to him. During various difficult periods in the nation’s history, he played the role of a saviour and rescuer. His unique contribution and successful leadership will continue to guide future generations,” he said. Assuming responsibility for state affairs, this wise statesman established multi-party democracy and ensured freedom of speech, expression, and the press, Shahabuddin said. “Regardless of religion, ethnicity, or whether people lived in the hills or plains, he united the entire nation under the spirit of Bangladeshi nationalism.” He said for socio-economic development, boosting investment and export, attaining self-reliance, and improvements in living standards, Ziaur Rahman introduced multifaceted plans and groundbreaking programmes. “His 19-point programme served as a blueprint for building a productive and self-reliant Bangladesh.” The President said through initiatives in agricultural development, canal excavation, increased food production, family planning, village government, rural development, and mass education, he brought people into the mainstream of national development. “His contributions to youth development, women’s empowerment, child welfare, and the promotion of education and culture remain unforgettable.” To uphold Bangladesh’s interests on the international stage, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman adopted a balanced foreign policy, he said. “He established dignified, friendly, and cooperative relations with the Muslim world, Southeast Asia, China, and Western countries.” He was the first to institutionalise access for Bangladeshi workers to labour markets in the Middle East and other regions, Shahabuddin said. “As a result of his far-sighted initiatives, remittances sent by expatriates have become one of the principal driving forces of the national economy. It was also through his active efforts that the path was paved for the eventual establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).” He said Ziaur Rahman had only a short time to lead the country. “Yet within that brief period, the patriotism, integrity, dedication, and vision with which he advanced the nation remain a shining example to this day.” The President expressed his belief that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s simple and selfless life, strong personality, unquestionable honesty, and image as a pragmatic and energetic statesman will remain forever alive in the hearts of the people. “I hope that his active life, profound love for the country, firm stance against corruption, commitment to justice and fairness, vision of self-reliant development, and ideals will continue to inspire future generations.” He also prayed to Almighty Allah to grant Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman the highest place in Jannatul Ferdous.

Diplomats from around the world stationed in Dhaka joined the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations at the invitation of the President of Bangladesh.  The occasion once again provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and partners and celebrate the spirit of togetherness.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has returned home after completion of his follow-up treatment and health examinations in London. A commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the President landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 10:50am, said his press secretary Sarwar Alam. Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Yousef S. Y. Ramadan, British High Commission Counsellor Alison J Cross, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Prime Minister’s Office and the President’s Office received the President at the airport. Following doctors’ advice, President Shahabuddin left for London on May 9 for follow-up treatment and medical examinations. On May 12, an angiogram was conducted under the supervision of interventional cardiologist Dr. Stephen Hoole at Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge.  During the procedure, a serious blockage was detected in his heart, prompting immediate angioplasty and the successful placement of a stent. The President’s physical condition is currently stable and satisfactory, according to officials. Earlier, in October 2023, the President underwent cardiac bypass surgery in Singapore. During the visit, the President also held an informal courtesy meeting with Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris at the Hilton London.

Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris on Saturday paid a courtesy call on Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin, who is currently staying in the United Kingdom. The informal meeting took place this morning at the lobby of the Hilton Hotel in London, where the Sudanese Prime Minister inquired about the President’s health and wished him a speedy recovery, President's Press Secretary Sarwar Alam said. Quoting President’s PS Md. Didarul Alam, who is accompanying him in the UK, Sarwar told UNB that Dr. Idris prayed to Almighty Allah for the overall well-being of the people of Bangladesh and for the President’s good health during the warm and cordial interaction. President diagnosed with heart block, undergoes stent implantation in UK  

A significant block has been detected in the heart of President Mohammed Shahabuddin during a routine medical check-up in the United Kingdom, prompting immediate angioplasty and placement of a stent. The stent implantation procedure was performed at Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge on Tuesday afternoon, President's Press Secretary Sarwar Alam said, adding that he is currently in stable and satisfactory condition. President leaves for UK for medical check-up Quoting President’s personal physician Colonel Dr AKM Faizul Haque, who is accompanying him in the UK, Sarwar told UNB that Shahabuddin underwent an angiogram under the supervision of interventional cardiologist Dr Stephen Holley at the hospital. During the examination, a major block was identified in one of the coronary arteries, prompting immediate angioplasty and placement of a stent, he said. The press secretary also said the President is now under close observation and care of the hospital’s medical team and sought prayers from the people of Bangladesh for his speedy recovery. In October 2023, President Mohammed Shahabuddin underwent open-heart surgery at the National University Hospital (NUH) in Singapore. Since then, he has been receiving follow-up treatment for heart-related complications at Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge. Royal Papworth Hospital is internationally renowned for its advanced cardiac treatment and research and is recognised as one of the institutions involved in the world’s first successful heart transplant procedures. The President left Dhaka for London on May 9 for follow-up treatment and health examinations. He is scheduled to return home on May 18 after completing his medical care.

The Cabinet Division has issued revised instructions regarding state protocol (state ceremony) to be followed during the President’s foreign visits and return to the country, outlining which officials must be present at the airport. In a letter issued on May 4 to concerned authorities, the Cabinet Division clarified the protocol arrangements for the President’s departure abroad and arrival in Bangladesh. According to the revised decision, only seven officials will be present at the airport during such occasions. Previously, under instructions issued on May 16, 2017, a total of 13 officials were required to be present at the airport during the President’s foreign trips and return. The Cabinet Division letter stated that the government has decided the following officials will attend the airport during the President’s departure and return: a cabinet member, the Chief of the Diplomatic Corps, the head of the host country’s mission, the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Secretary (Public Division) of the President’s Office, the Military Secretary to the President, and the Chief of Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The revised arrangement aims to streamline protocol procedures while maintaining formal diplomatic and state ceremonial requirements, according to officials.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin left Dhaka for London on Saturday morning for follow-up treatment and health examinations. A regular commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines (BG-201) carrying the President departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 7:45am, according to Bangabhaban source. Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Yousef S. Y. Ramadan, British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Prime Minister’s Office and the President’s Office saw him off at the airport. Pabna erupts in joy at Shahabuddin Chuppu's nomination for president Family members of the President, his physicians, staff nurses and relevant officials from Bangabhaban are accompanying him during the visit. In October 2023, President Shahabuddin underwent cardiac bypass surgery in Singapore. As part of follow-up treatment, he will undergo necessary health examinations at a specialised hospital in the United Kingdom. The President is scheduled to return home on May 18.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin is set to leave for the United Kingdom on Saturday for follow-up treatment and medical check-ups. A commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the President is scheduled to depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for London in the morning, said Bangabhaban sources. Family members, personal physicians and staff nurses, and relevant officials and employees of Bangabhaban will accompany the President during the visit. Shahabuddin underwent cardiac bypass surgery in Singapore in October 2023. As part of the post-operative follow-up, necessary health examinations will be conducted at a specialised hospital in the UK, as advised by physicians. He is expected to return home on May 18.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Sunday called on government officials to remain committed to implementing the government’s promises, programmes, policies and development projects while prioritising public interest. He made the call while addressing the  programme marking the Deputy Commissioners’ Conference 2026 at Bangabhaban. "It is the responsibility of field-level administrators to ensure that the benefits of government initiatives reach the actual beneficiaries on time.You are the direct representatives of the government at the grassroots level,” he said. He reminded officials that above all, they are servants of the people and urged them to regularly listen to citizens’ grievances, problems and complaints and take active measures to resolve them. He also stressed the importance of ensuring quick, easy and quality public services at people’s doorsteps through the use of information technology. He urged officials to remain vigilant so that services provided by both government and private institutions reach people smoothly and without disruption. Welcoming the divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners to Bangabhaban on the occasion of the 2026 conference, the President paid deep tribute to the martyrs and freedom fighters of the Liberation War, saying their sacrifices remain a lasting source of inspiration for the nation. He also remembered Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman Bir Uttam, along with all freedom fighters, organisers and national leaders who contributed to the Liberation War. He further recalled former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for her contribution to improving people’s lives and establishing parliamentary democracy in the country. The President also paid tribute to those killed and injured during the July-August 2024 student-public uprising and the long democratic movements, saying their sacrifices created a historic opportunity to build a humane, accountable and justice-based Bangladesh. Addressing the deputy commissioners, he praised their professionalism, integrity and efficiency in helping organise the recently held 13th National Parliamentary Election in a free, fair, neutral and peaceful environment. He described the Deputy Commissioners’ Conference as an important bridge between policymaking and implementation, and a valuable platform for exchanging views on field-level realities, challenges and opportunities. The President said public expectations from the new government are understandably high after the end of prolonged misrule, stressing the need for a responsible, transparent and service-oriented administration to meet those expectations. He urged deputy commissioners to utilise “institutional experience and memory” in carrying out their duties and combine them with modern ideas, innovative practices and practical solutions. He also emphasised ensuring people’s participation in development planning and implementation, saying sustainable development is impossible without public involvement. Referring to the ongoing tensions and war in the Middle East, the President warned that the crisis has created global energy shortages. He instructed officials to stay alert in implementing government decisions related to power and energy management and strengthen market monitoring to prevent hoarding and keep commodity prices stable. He also stressed ensuring the proper use of government funds, reducing unnecessary expenditure and closely monitoring the timely implementation of development projects. The President noted that while rapid advances in information technology have improved daily life and contributed significantly to socio-economic development, criminals are increasingly misusing technology. He warned that misinformation, disinformation and rumours spread through social media are creating social unrest and threatening national unity. He instructed local administrators to work closely with civil society and law enforcement agencies to firmly combat such crimes. Highlighting land disputes as one of the major causes of rural conflicts and litigation, the President called for a more efficient, modern, people-oriented and accountable land management system and directed officials to take strict action against irregularities. He also instructed officials to monitor the delivery of basic services such as housing, education, healthcare, agro-based industries, electricity, gas, safe water and sanitation so that these services reach people at the grassroots level. The President urged the administration to give top priority to preventing violence against women, children and other marginalised groups. He called for stronger action to combat gender-based violence, ensure women’s safety and empower women at the grassroots level. He also asked officials to play a more active role in youth skill development and employment generation and to maintain strict measures against drug abuse. Describing corruption and misgovernance as major obstacles to good governance and development, the President stressed the need to ensure transparency, accountability, ethics and professionalism at every level of administration and reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption. The President said the officials had already received valuable guidance from the Prime Minister and expressed hope that they would sincerely implement the directions and responsibilities assigned during the conference. He expressed confidence that the intelligence, honesty and dedication of the officials would contribute significantly to national development and public welfare. The President also said the deputy commissioners would play a leading role in building a developed, modern, just and humane Bangladesh and further strengthen the image of a people-oriented democratic government.