Shakib Al Hasan to Receive Security, Must Clarify Political Stance
Bangladesh’s government has pledged to provide cricketer Shakib Al Hasan with security befitting a national player. However, Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud has emphasized that Shakib must clarify his political stance to appease the public.
Mahmud acknowledged Shakib’s declining popularity due to his silence during the recent student-led protests, which resulted in numerous casualties. At a press conference in Kanpur, Shakib evaded questions about his position on the political upheaval in Bangladesh.
Mahmud attributed Shakib’s predicament to his dual role as a cricketer and politician. He noted that Shakib’s involvement in the Awami League, which was overthrown in a student-led revolution, has drawn public ire.
“The state is obligated to provide security to all citizens, including Shakib,” Mahmud said. “However, we must consider his dual identities. He has two identities – the cricketer and the politician. People have mixed reactions regarding both his identities.”
Mahmud emphasized that while the government will provide security to Shakib as a cricketer, it cannot guarantee his safety if the public remains hostile towards him due to his political affiliation.
“If half the country’s population is angry at me, then the five or six security persons I have won’t be enough to protect me,” Mahmud said. “Shakib can reduce the public’s anger through his own words. I think he has to clarify his political standpoint.”
Mahmud also addressed the murder case in which Shakib has been named. He cited statements by Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, who indicated that Shakib’s name could be removed from the case if he is not found to be complicit.
Shakib is reportedly planning to return to the USA after the Kanpur Test. He is not part of the T20I squad for the upcoming series against India, having announced his retirement from the shortest format.