Cricket Icon Shakib Al Hasan Steps into Politics

Cricket Icon Shakib Al Hasan Steps into Politics

Nadia Nawaz | November 19, 2023 | 10:47 AM IST | Politics, Sports | Tags: #AwamiLeague, #BangladeshCricket, #BangladeshPolitics, #CricketToPolitics, #GeneralElections, #MashrafeMortaza, #PoliticalTransition, #ShakibAlHasan, #SheikhHasina, #SouthAsianPolitics | Follow on Google News

Cricket Icon Shakib Al Hasan Steps into Politics

Cricket Icon Shakib Al Hasan Steps into Politics

Bangladeshi cricket superstar Shakib Al Hasan is making a bold move from the cricket field to the political arena. He has officially sought a nomination from the ruling Bangladesh Awami League to participate in the upcoming general election on January 7. This decision marks a significant transition for the celebrated all-rounder, as he ventures into a new phase of his career.

Eyeing a Seat in Parliament

Shakib’s political ambitions were confirmed when he obtained nomination forms from the Awami League to run in three different constituencies. His candidacy, however, is subject to approval by a parliamentary board led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Shakib is eyeing a seat in either his southwestern home district of Magura or in the capital, Dhaka, indicating his readiness to serve the country beyond cricket.

A New Chapter Amid Political Controversy

The entry of Shakib into politics comes at a time when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been at the helm for 15 years, faces accusations of autocratic rule. With the major opposition parties planning to boycott the polls, Hasina is expected to secure a fourth term. Her tenure has been marked by notable economic growth but also criticisms of democratic erosion and allegations of vote-rigging in previous elections.

Cricketers Turning Politicians in South Asia

Shakib’s shift to politics is not unprecedented in South Asia, where cricket enjoys immense popularity. However, active players typically do not make such transitions. A notable exception is former cricket captain Mashrafe Mortaza, who entered politics in 2018 and was elected as a lawmaker from the ruling party. Shakib, currently nursing a finger injury, follows in these footsteps, balancing his cricketing career with new political aspirations.

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Nadia Nawaz

Nadia Nawaz – a new journo in digital journalism covers stories, reports/articles from Pakistan. Nadia writes on various topics, include Politics, Economy,Sports and finance. she further holds a high head in field of graphic designing. Nadia can be reached on nawaznadia20@gmail.com