Shakib Al Hasan, the prominent Bangladeshi cricketer and former member of Parliament, has been charged in a murder case linked to the death of a garment factory worker during recent protests in Dhaka.
The case, filed by Rafiqul Islam, the father of the victim Mohammed Rubel, implicates over 150 individuals, including Shakib, who is listed as the 28th accused, and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Background of the Incident
The protests that led to Rubel’s death occurred on August 5, coinciding with significant political unrest in Bangladesh.
Rubel was shot in the chest and abdomen during a demonstration on Ring Road and succumbed to his injuries two days later in the hospital.
The FIR filed by Rafiqul Islam alleges that the shooting was part of a planned criminal conspiracy involving multiple individuals, with around 400-500 unidentified persons also implicated in the incident.
Shakib’s Involvement
At the time of the protests, Shakib was not in Bangladesh; he was participating in the Global T20 Canada league.
His absence from the country raises questions about the validity of the charges against him, as he was reportedly engaged in cricketing commitments abroad during the protests.
Despite this, the allegations have sparked significant controversy, particularly given Shakib’s previous affiliation with the Awami League and his recent election to Parliament earlier in January 2024.
Political Context
The unrest in Bangladesh has been severe, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who subsequently fled the country.
Reports from the United Nations indicate that the protests have resulted in over 400 deaths, with some estimates suggesting the toll could exceed 650.
The political landscape has shifted dramatically, with a new interim government now in place and former cricketer Faruque Ahmed appointed as the president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
Current Status and Reactions
Shakib is currently participating in a Test series against Pakistan, with the first match having begun recently. The interim government has allowed him to play despite the serious allegations against him.
Bangladesh’s cricket captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, expressed confidence in Shakib’s professionalism, stating that the all-rounder’s focus would remain on cricket despite the political turmoil.
However, Shakib’s continued inclusion in the national team has faced backlash from the public, with protests erupting in Dhaka against his presence in the squad.
Critics have accused him of remaining silent while violence erupted against protesters, raising questions about the responsibilities of public figures during such crises.
As the situation develops, Shakib has yet to publicly comment on the murder charges or the ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh.
