Jamaat-e-Islami lawmaker Ataur Rahman, representing Narail‑2, sharply criticized the President during a parliamentary discussion on the thank‑you motion for the President’s speech on Monday. He remarked that the President’s backbone was either too stiff or bent, implying a lack of independence. Rahman also condemned ruling party MPs for thanking the President, suggesting their praise was misplaced.

He argued that the President had previously legitimized fascist activities and the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, saying that offering thanks to such a figure would cause her spirit deep pain. Rahman urged his colleagues to speak with accountability. Referring to a past comment by late MP Salauddin Quader Chowdhury, he reiterated doubts about the President’s autonomy, citing an incident where the Home Minister claimed the President was forced to approve an order against his will.

Rahman concluded that the President’s actions and speeches lacked credibility, asserting that a leader who changes stance with shifting power cannot be genuinely thanked.