Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, has expressed disappointment over Bangladeshi cricket star Shakib Al Hasan’s decision to join the ruling Awami League. He remarked that aligning with what he described as an autocratic and repressive party was not an appropriate step for someone of Shakib's stature and influence.

Speaking to the media on Friday (April 18) after visiting Magura Medical College Hospital, Shafiqul Alam said that such a decision would be unacceptable in any civilized country. Referring to the case of missing politician Ilias Ali, who was allegedly forcibly disappeared in 2012, he added that there are countless such cases linked to the ruling party. Given that background, the Press Secretary believes that many people find Shakib’s political affiliation deeply troubling.

Shafiqul Alam strongly criticized the Awami League, describing it as a “vile” and “bloodstained” organization. He claimed that the party has been responsible for the killings of thousands of young men and women and alleged that nearly every senior leader within the party is complicit in acts of violence. His comments reflect a harsh stance toward the ruling party, labeling it as being deeply involved in serious human rights violations.

He acknowledged that participating in politics is a constitutional right for every citizen but emphasized that individuals should be aware of the nature of the political organization they are joining. He posed a rhetorical question, asking whether anyone would knowingly join an extremist group, drawing a parallel to imply that joining Awami League, in his view, is similarly questionable.

Earlier in the day, the Press Secretary held a meeting with the principal, faculty members, and students of Magura Medical College. He discussed the institution's performance and academic progress, reassuring them of continued governmental oversight. Addressing concerns over potential structural changes, he stated that authorities had informed him that there are no immediate plans to merge the institution with any other. According to him, the current status of the college would remain unchanged.

During his remarks, Shafiqul Alam noted that he found Magura Medical College to be operating satisfactorily based on his observations during the visit. He conveyed that the administration had assured him of the college's autonomy and that its current structure would be maintained for the foreseeable future.

His comments come at a time of heightened political tension and increased public scrutiny over celebrity involvement in politics. Shakib Al Hasan’s entry into the Awami League has drawn mixed reactions, with many supporters praising the move while critics, such as Shafiqul Alam, questioning its implications given the political and human rights record of the ruling party.

As one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated athletes, Shakib’s decision to enter politics has inevitably become a topic of national debate. The Press Secretary’s remarks highlight the broader concerns about political alignment in a polarized environment where questions of justice, accountability, and freedom remain contentious issues.