Bangladesh Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan resigns amid student protests and political turmoil

The protesters had issued a deadline, demanding the resignation of Hassan and the Appellate Division judges by 1 pm.

Bangladesh’s Chief Justice, Obaidul Hassan, resigned on August 10 following massive student protests demanding a restructuring of the country’s judiciary. This development comes just days after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government amid widespread unrest.

The 65-year-old Chief Justice announced his resignation around 1 pm, shortly after students from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement gathered at the Supreme Court premises. The protesters had issued a deadline, demanding the resignation of Hassan and the Appellate Division judges by 1 pm. The Chief Justice’s resignation letter has been submitted to the law ministry, and is expected to be forwarded to President Mohammad Shahabuddin for formal acceptance, according to Prof Asif Nazrul, the law adviser of the interim government, in a Facebook video.

Prof Nazrul noted that while Hassan’s resignation has been confirmed, there are no updates yet regarding the resignation of other judges. Chief Justice Hassan had earlier discussed his decision with Dr. Asif Nazrul before announcing his departure.

The resignation followed the cancellation of a Supreme Court meeting, which was postponed due to the students’ ultimatum. The protests intensified as students marched towards the Supreme Court, demanding not only the Chief Justice’s resignation but also a revamp of the judiciary, accusing it of being aligned with Hasina’s Awami League.

In response to the protests, Bangladesh Army personnel were deployed around the Supreme Court to maintain order and ensure the safety of the court's premises. The military urged protesters to act peacefully and avoid damage to government property.

Chief Justice Hassan cited concerns for the safety of judges across all court levels as a key reason for his resignation. He stated that he would complete the necessary formalities and forward his resignation letter to the President later in the day.

The resignation follows a turbulent period in Bangladeshi politics. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India earlier in the week amid violent anti-government demonstrations. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was sworn in as the head of an interim government on August 8, with plans to restore order and announce fresh elections.