Staff Correspondent

Amidst the uproar in the country's political arena over cricketer Shakib Al Hasan's joining BNM politics, BNP Vice Chairman Major (Retd) Hafizuddin Ahmed said that the Bangladesh national team cricketer himself expressed a desire to engage in politics but was discouraged from doing so.

“The country’s political arena remains notably tranquil, devoid of significant waves. However, a recent photograph featuring myself and Shakib Al Hasan has sparked considerable interest within the political sphere. Additionally, numerous news portals have been publishing reports that cast aspersions on my character,” Hafizuddin Ahmed said.

While addressing a press conference at his Banani residence, the BNP leader said, “Shakib expressed his willingness to join politics but I told Shakib, it is your own decision. You are still playing cricket. You must decide whether you want to be involved in politics,” said Hafiz.

He arranged the press conference to clarify any misunderstandings regarding his alleged affiliation with the Bangladesh Nationalist Movement (BNM), commonly referred to as the 'King's Party,' and to address the circulating picture of himself with Shakib Al Hasan.

He noted that BNM was formed five months before the 7 January election with the initiative of three to four retired military officers, who brought Shakib Al Hasan to him.

Responding to a query, Hafizuddin said, “What have I done? Have I joined the BNM? I have received a proposal to join a new political party, but I have not accepted it. Now, efforts are being made to create confusion by spreading disinformation against me."