State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque has expressed regret over confusion surrounding his remarks on the football interest of Zaima Rahman, daughter of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, and her reported opportunity with Chelsea’s age-based team. The former national goalkeeper described the social media trolling on the issue as a result of misunderstanding and said his comments were personal observations that should not be misrepresented.
Amid discussions triggered by a statement attributed to him on social media, Aminul Haque posted a clarification on his Facebook page on Monday (March 23) night.
In his statement, he said his original intention was to highlight the sporting talent of a meritorious student alongside her academic achievements.
Referring to the ongoing debate, he said the way his remarks on Zaima Rahman’s passion for football and her opportunity with Chelsea’s youth team were being circulated on social media was “highly undesirable.”
Describing the matter as a completely personal observation, he added, “I would like to humbly clarify that my intention was to present the sporting talent of a bright student alongside her studies. It was a personal observation and discussion, which should not be diverted in any other direction.”
Responding to the humor and criticism surrounding his remarks, the former football star urged all concerned to refrain from such actions. In the concluding part of his post, he wrote, “I sincerely request everyone not to present a personal statement in a sarcastic manner or misinterpret it.”
“If anyone has been hurt due to any misunderstanding or my statement, I sincerely express my regret,” he added.
Earlier, while recalling past experiences during a discussion, Aminul Haque mentioned that Zaima Rahman played excellent football during her school years in London and had received a call from Chelsea’s youth team as a goalkeeper. However, her family advised her to focus more on her studies rather than pursuing professional football.
After the remarks spread on social media, many users presented the issue sarcastically, prompting Aminul Haque to issue the explanatory statement.
Previously, a clip of the State Minister’s remarks at an event had gone viral online, sparking widespread discussions about Zaima Rahman’s football background.
DBTech/FBO/EK/OR
