During the Crisis, BNP and the Armed Forces Stood by Me: President

President Md. Sahabuddin, in an interview with Kaler Kantho, revealed that during the caretaker government, he faced numerous conspiracies aimed at permanently destroying the country’s law and order and creating a constitutional vacuum. He stated, “During that time, I remained steadfast in my decisions. As a result, none of the conspiracies succeeded.” According to the President, plans to remove him through unconstitutional means failed, and notably, the BNP stood firmly by his side during those challenging times.

Recalling his experience during the one-and-a-half-year caretaker government, the President said, “Those years were far from easy. I was not involved in any discussions, yet numerous schemes were plotted against me. There were attempts to push me out of power.” He further mentioned that some leaders of popular uprisings tried to remove him under pressure, and political parties had decided after long consultations that he could only be removed if they collectively agreed.

President Sahabuddin said, “Even in that difficult period, the top leadership of the BNP stood with me. They clearly communicated their commitment to uphold the continuity of the constitution. In particular, the sincerity and support of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman gave me great encouragement. Their support was 100 percent.” He also noted that the BNP-led alliance acted as a united group, ultimately thwarting the unconstitutional attempts.

The President mentioned that the caretaker government had devised a new plan to remove him, even attempting to place a former Chief Justice in his position. However, that Chief Justice refused to comply. Moreover, the heads of the three armed forces supported him, and even when mobs gathered in front of Bangabhaban, the military ensured his security.

President Sahabuddin stated, “The caretaker government wanted to keep my name completely out of the public eye. They tried to make me invisible to the people of the country. I was prevented from attending foreign visits as well as important national events, and even my presence at university convocations was blocked.” He added, “Overnight, my pictures were removed from all high commissions worldwide, and a long-standing state protocol was abruptly halted. This was clearly the first step toward my removal.”

According to President Sahabuddin, during this period, his sole support came from the BNP and the armed forces, who maintained a firm stance to protect the constitution and ensure political stability.