In a statement that could potentially reshape the landscape of sports governance in Bangladesh, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has unequivocally declared his party's disinterest in the intrusion of politics into the realm of sport. This clear message comes amidst swirling speculation regarding the future of Shakib Al Hasan, the former national captain and a Member of Parliament under the recently ousted Awami League government.
Speaking at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Sunday, Mirza Fakhrul was forthright: "If Shakib is fit to play, then we have no problem. I do not want to mix politics with sports, and I do not support it. Whoever is qualified, they will play." This assertion from a leading political figure offers a refreshing perspective, advocating for merit and ability to be the sole determinants of a sportsperson's place in the national setup.
Shakib Al Hasan, who was elected as an MP during the tenure of the former Awami League government, has remained outside the country since the political upheaval in July. While he has not formally retired from international cricket, his appearances have been limited to franchise leagues. Addressing the widespread rumour that the BNP, should it come to power in the upcoming national elections, would exclude Shakib from the national team, Mirza Fakhrul provided crucial clarification. "Whether he returns or not depends on his form and activity," he explained. "If someone is politically banned or involved in a criminal case, then that is a different matter. However, to prevent someone from playing solely for political reasons is inappropriate."
Mirza Fakhrul also took the opportunity to fondly recall the contributions of the late Arafat Rahman Koko, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and Sadeque Hossain Khoka, both of whom had significant involvement in Bangladeshi cricket. "Koko did a lot for our cricket. He kept sports separate from politics," he noted. "Khoka Bhai also contributed a lot. If we get the opportunity, we will work further for cricket development." These references serve to underscore the BNP's purported historical commitment to keeping cricket free from political interference.
At a time when the future of a player like Shakib Al Hasan is a subject of intense public debate, the BNP Secretary General's remarks send a clear and welcome message: should they assume power, the sole criterion for national team selection will be skill and qualification, rather than political affiliation. This stance, if consistently upheld, could foster a more transparent and merit-based environment in Bangladeshi sports, allowing talent to flourish unhindered by the often-divisive currents of national politics. It's a promise that, if kept, would be a significant victory for the spirit of the game itself.
