No legal barriers to Shakib’s return to Bangladesh: Asif Mahmud

Youth and sports adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain does not see any legal obstacles to all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan's return to the country or his subsequent departure after the upcoming South Africa Series.

The two-Test South Africa series starting from 21 October is likely to be Shakib's last Test assignment. Before the Kanpur Test in India last month, Shakib announced that he intends to retire from Test cricket after playing this series if he is given the assurance of ‘safe exit’.

Since then, there has been speculation regarding whether Shakib, who is accused in a murder case, will participate in the series. Or will he face any legal implications upon his return to the country? Will he be able to leave the country again without any issues? Will the pending case create any legal hurdles for him?

The government has clarified the matter several times before, but curiosity persists.

“There shouldn’t be any legal barriers to his (Shakib's) return to the country or his travel abroad,” Asif Mahmud stated during a press conference at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Sunday.

“He is a cricketer, he will play, and he is a citizen of Bangladesh. I don't see any obstacle to his return.” the adviser added
“It is the state’s responsibility to ensure the safety of every citizen. It is also the state's responsibility to ensure the security of the cricket team, and we will ensure that.”

For the past few days, a group of fans have been campaigning against Shakib outside the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium. Anti-Shakib graffiti has also appeared on the walls outside the stadium. There were even reports of a clash between groups supporting and opposing Shakib outside the stadium on Saturday.

“This is an emotional issue. They have the right to express it. In a democratic country, they have the constitutional right to protest,” Asif Mahmud said.

Shakib has already clarified his political stance in a post on his verified Facebook page, where he expressed regret for remaining silent during the student-people's movement.

“There was a significant movement, and Shakib Al Hasan was previously associated with the fascist government. He has explained this in his post, yet some emotions still linger. However, no legal issues have surfaced so far,” he added regarding the issue.

He also reminded everyone that any kind of instability could jeopardise the two-Test series between Bangladesh and South Africa.

“We should be very respectful when it comes to security. Since South Africa will be visiting, we need to maintain a positive environment. Otherwise, foreign countries may feel security concerns when deciding to play here.”

“If there is no involvement, Shakib’s name will be dropped from the murder case,” he concluded.