Bangladesh cricketer Shakib Al Hasan has wished former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her birthday, posting a brief message on his verified Facebook page on Monday (28 September).
In the post, Shakib wrote: “Happy birthday, Apa. Wishing you good health and well-being.”
The message comes at a time when Sheikh Hasina remains a prominent subject of political discussion in Bangladesh following the major political changes of 2024. On 5 August that year, she resigned as prime minister and left Bangladesh amid a mass movement led by students and joined by people from wider sections of society. Her departure brought an end to nearly 15 years in power. She subsequently remained in India.
Shakib has also been involved directly in politics. He contested the 12th parliamentary election from the Magura-1 constituency as an Awami League candidate and won the seat, becoming a member of parliament. His political involvement later drew attention following the change in the country’s political circumstances.
Questions were raised in various quarters about his political role and his position during the anti-discrimination student movement in 2024. A murder case was subsequently filed against the cricketer.
The political developments coincided with an important period in Shakib’s cricket career. In 2024, he had planned to play what he intended to be his final Test match against South Africa in Mirpur in October. He had also prepared to return to Bangladesh from the United States for the match.
That return ultimately did not take place because of the prevailing security situation and related circumstances. As a result, Shakib was unable to make the planned farewell appearance in Mirpur. He has since remained in the United States with his family.
Shakib has been one of Bangladesh’s most prominent cricketers, with his career spanning many years at international level. His entry into electoral politics added another dimension to his public profile, meaning that his statements and social media activity have often attracted attention beyond the sporting arena.
His latest post contained no political remarks. It was limited to a birthday greeting and a wish for Sheikh Hasina’s health and well-being. Given the wider political context and Shakib’s previous involvement in politics, however, the short message has attracted discussion on social media.
