During the student-public movement in July-August last year, Shakib complicated his path by getting involved in a controversial photo and altercations with spectators. Following the uprising, a murder case was filed against him, and allegations of corruption have also surfaced.
Shakib Al Hasan’s six-month political career has overshadowed his 18-year cricket career.
In a recent interview with an English daily, Shakib spoke about his political journey. He believes that joining politics was not a mistake and that if he contests in the election again, he would still win.
Speaking about his decision to enter politics, Shakib said, “If joining politics was a mistake for me, then it would be a mistake for anyone else in the future too. Doctors, barristers, businessmen—anyone can enter politics. It’s a right of every citizen. Whether to vote or not is the people’s decision. When I joined, my intention was to work for the people of Magura. I believe they wanted me.”
On winning elections, he said, “A fair election took place in my area. I believe if I run again, I will win. I wanted to serve the people of Magura, and they gave me that opportunity. Unfortunately, I could not meet their expectations, and I have accepted that.”
Explaining why he entered politics, Shakib said, “To bring change, one has to be within the system. It’s not possible to change the system from the outside. Could those who run the country bring the desired changes if they had stayed outside the system?”
He also added, “Most of those who consider my entry into politics a mistake are not voters of Magura. The people of Magura think differently. I believe that if there’s an election today, they will vote for me again because they believe I can do something for them.
My main goal was to work for the people.”
