Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir Elected Bangladesh’s 23rd President
Why in the news
Bangladesh’s parliament chose a new head of state in August 2026 after the previous President stepped down.
Key facts
- Winner: Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir of the BNP, now the 23rd President.
- Chosen by the Jatiya Sangsad (parliament) to serve five years.
- Votes: 255 for him against 88 for Colonel (Retd.) Oli Ahmed.
- Trigger: the resignation of Mohammed Shahabuddin.
- The election was described as Bangladesh’s first contested presidential poll in 35 years.
| Candidate | Votes |
|---|---|
| Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir (BNP) | 255 |
| Colonel (Retd.) Oli Ahmed | 88 |
Significance
A contested vote for the presidency is unusual according to the reporting, and it shows parliament’s role in choosing the head of state.
Exam angle
- Electoral body: Jatiya Sangsad.
- Office number: 23rd President.
- Term: five years.
- Predecessor who resigned: Mohammed Shahabuddin.