Dhaka, May 15 -- In response to the swirling public debate surrounding former president Abdul Hamid's departure from Bangladesh, his youngest son, Riad Ahmed Tushar, shared an emotional Facebook post condemning what he called a "distorted" portrayal of his father's trip.

Tushar said Hamid, who had stepped away from politics after completing his term, left for Thailand for medical treatment on the recommendation of a medical board.

He emphasised that, like any other citizen, Hamid is entitled to seek treatment abroad.

The clarification comes at a time of political turbulence after calls from several parties led to a ban on the Awami League and a suspension of its registration.

"A man aged 82-83 years, who, due to illness, cannot stand ...