Former captain of the Bangladesh national cricket team, Shakib Al Hasan, is facing security concerns. In response, Asif Mahmud, the youth and sports adviser of the interim government, stated, “The state is obligated to provide security to every citizen, and we will certainly do that. We will give Shakib as much security as he needs as a player.”
He made these comments during an event at the Secretariat on Sunday, September 29.
Asif Mahmud emphasized that Shakib has two identities: he is both a player and a politician, having been involved in politics with the Awami League. “These two identities create mixed reactions among people,” he explained.
Regarding the murder case against Shakib, he noted, “We have already stated that if there is no evidence linking him to the investigation, his name will be removed from the case.”
Asif added, “If there is public anger directed at Shakib because of his political identity, then… Imagine if I have five police constables and one bodyguard for my safety. If 160 million people in the country are angry with me, what protection can they provide?”
He concluded by saying, “If there is public discontent, I need to address it. I believe Shakib needs to clarify his position politically and communicate about it. Mashrafe Bin Mortaza has already spoken out.”
