Shakib Will Get Security if He Returns: Adviser

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman has said cricketer and former lawmaker Shakib Al Hasan would receive security if he returns to Bangladesh and would be allowed to face any allegations through due legal process.

Speaking at a government press briefing in Dhaka on Tuesday, the adviser also criticised Shakib’s political association with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, describing him as a “rotten” person despite his achievements as a cricketer.

“He may be a good player. He is a rotten person who aligned himself with Hasina and remains aligned with her,” he said in response to a question about Shakib.

Shakib, one of Bangladesh’s most successful cricketers, entered politics with Hasina’s Awami League and won a parliamentary seat in the January 2024 election, which was marred by allegations of widespread irregularities.

He was among several former lawmakers and officials linked to the previous government who came under scrutiny after Hasina’s government was ousted following the student-led uprising in August 2024.

At least 1,400 protesters were killed during the July-August 2024 uprising, according to the United Nations.

The adviser said Shakib would be able to return to Bangladesh safely and face any allegations against him through the legal process.

He made similar comments about Sheikh Hasina, who remains in India, saying she would also receive full security and have her legal and constitutional rights protected if she returns to Bangladesh.

Hasina recently said in an interview that she plans to return in December.

“We will ensure her rights, and she will face the judicial process,” the adviser said. “Whatever decision the court makes will have to be accepted.”

He said the government would guarantee the civil and constitutional rights of anyone accused of serious crimes, including Shakib and Hasina.