‘Happy Birthday Apa’: Shakib’s Post Sparks Social Media Stir, Advisor Asif Responds

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina received birthday wishes from Bangladesh’s national cricket team former captain and ex-MP of the 12th Jatiya Sangsad, Shakib Al Hasan. Soon after, a Facebook post by Youth and Sports Affairs Advisor Asif Mahmud ignited fresh controversy.

On Sunday, 28 September, Shakib posted on his verified Facebook page, sharing a photo taken in 2015 at Ganabhaban with Sheikh Hasina. His caption read: “Happy Birthday Apa.”

The post was initially received warmly by fans and followers.

Shortly afterwards, Asif Mahmud shared a post on Facebook stating: “You gave me thousands of abuses for not rehabilitating someone. But I was right. Discussion ends here.”

This remark quickly generated widespread discussion on social media. Many users expressed irritation and frustration directed at Shakib, speculating about the target of Asif’s comment.

It is widely believed that Asif’s reference to “not rehabilitating someone” alluded to Shakib Al Hasan, a suggestion that Shakib appeared to recognise.

A short time later, Shakib posted again on Facebook: “Well, in the end, someone admitted that because of them, I could not wear the Bangladesh jersey or play for the country! Perhaps one day I will return to my beloved homeland. Love you, Bangladesh.”

Context: Shakib’s Political and Sporting Career

• In January last year, Shakib won a seat in Magura as an Awami League candidate during the 12th parliamentary elections.
• On 5 August 2024, following the student-people uprising that led to the fall of the Awami League government, the President dissolved Parliament, resulting in Shakib losing his MP position.
• Since then, he has been residing abroad.

Despite this, Shakib participated in two away series against India and Pakistan with the national cricket team, returning to the United States after the matches concluded.

The exchange between Shakib and Asif Mahmud sparked intense commentary, with users debating:

• Whether Asif’s post was a direct reference to Shakib.
• Shakib’s potential return to Bangladesh both in cricket and public life.
• The political and emotional undertones of the posts, highlighting Shakib’s continued connection to his homeland.

This episode underscores the interplay of politics, sports, and social media in Bangladesh, showing how public figures’ interactions can quickly ignite national debate.