Actress Bandhon Shares Photo with Sheikh Hasina, Sparks Debate

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Actress Azmeri Haque Bandhon, who was vocal during the July student-led uprising, recently posted a photograph of herself with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, igniting a wave of discussion and criticism on social media.

Bandhon, who celebrated in the streets after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s political opponents—riding rickshaws across Dhaka—has been under scrutiny from Awami League supporters since 5 August. She has responded publicly to these criticisms.

On her Facebook account, Bandhon shared a cheerful picture with Sheikh Hasina, revealing: “At one point, I admired Sheikh Hasina. This photo? I jokingly told her that some people thought we had coordinated our outfits. She laughed, and that laugh felt genuine to me. In that moment, she seemed like one of us.”

Reflecting on the Prime Minister’s life, Bandhon stated: “Her story inspired me. One night she lost her entire family, lived as a refugee, yet returned to the very country that had taken everything from her. Such courage is rare. But over time, I’ve seen that power can also turn a person into a tyrant.”

Bandhon clarified the intentions behind the photo and her actions: “Just because I smiled with her doesn’t mean I am on the path to becoming Prime Minister! Why, then, are my colleagues in the Awami League so fearful? I speak for the people, I stand with the citizens. Why are you so obsessed with me? Maybe you cannot return to politics, but at least behave like human beings. Ask those responsible for clearance certificates what they offered me in the 2024 election. Treating people as human has become difficult because many no longer are. But it is possible with effort. Be a true leader, be human.”

In response to the social media backlash, she added: “The way you have attacked me is how you treat women in this country. Go ahead, continue spreading these baseless words! You have won—congratulations. But is attacking me your only task? Or have you decided to put the worst people in power and make them members of parliament?”

Key Points from Bandhon’s Statement

Bandhon’s post highlights her personal admiration for resilience, while emphasising that her actions are independent of political ambitions. She continues to call for respect, integrity, and empathy in both politics and society.