MEAWW.COM / NEWS / CELEBRITY NEWS

'I ask this as a mother': Shakira requests privacy for sons Milan and Sasha after year of 'incessant siege'

Shakira urged people to treat her sons Milan and Sasha, who are 10 and 8 years old, 'in the most humane way possible' after the intense year that they've had

BARCELONA, SPAIN: Shakira has released a statement following her split with former partner Gerard Pique and her family's relocation from Spain. The Columbian pop diva, 46, acknowledged the intense interest in her personal life but pleaded for Milan and Sasha to be given the freedom to lead "healthy and happy lives." Following cheating rumors after she broke up with Pique, with whom she had two children, the singer has drawn a lot of attention.

Following a trial's approval by a Spanish judge in 2022, she will also be charged with tax fraud. All misconduct has been refuted by Shakira. The former soccer star, 35, and the Colombian singer, 46, called it quits in May 2022 after 11 years of dating. Together, they have two children -- Milan, 10, and Sasha, 8. During Elle's honest interview, the singer discussed the separation.

READ MORE

From being in love to looking after children like a 'lioness', Shakira's journey after split with Gerard Pique

'Start a new chapter': Shakira leaves Barcelona after receiving eviction notice from Gerard Pique's dad

'Respect their right to privacy'

Per the Daily Mail, the singer sent a lengthy message on her social media pages on Monday in Spanish that read: "Respected friends, journalists, and media outlets At this time of change in my life as a public figure, it is understandable that there is a permanent curiosity on the part of the press surrounding me and my family."

The 'Hips don't lie' singer added, "However, my sons Milan and Sasha have had a very difficult year, suffering an incessant siege ... (from) the paparazzi and various media outlets in Barcelona. Now that they are beginning a new stage in their lives, I strongly ask the media ... to please respect their right to privacy."

She continued, "I beg you to refrain from following them to the exit or entrance of the school, waiting for them at the door of our house, or following them to their extra-curricular activities."

The singer urged people to treat her sons, who are 10 and 8 years old, "in the most humane way possible" and to give them the freedom to enjoy their lives without being constantly watched by the media.

"I ask this not as an artist, but rather as a mother, who wishes to protect and look after the psychological and emotional wellbeing of her children, so they can live a happy and healthy life like every child deserves," the mother-of-two concluded. According to reports, Shakira permanently left her beloved Barcelona after receiving an "eviction notice" from her ex-boyfriend's father.

'Today we start a new chapter'

The 'Whenever, Wherever' singer announced that she was leaving the Spanish city amid rumors that she and her children were going to Miami. According to Spanish media, she and her parents were asked to vacate the former couple's former family residence. As reported by El Periodico and La Vanguardia, Shakira was informed in March that she had until this month to vacate the Esplugues de Llobregat property she has been living in since splitting with the ex-footballer in 2022 or incur a 'compensation' payout.

Shakira addressed why she was leaving Barcelona in a statement on Instagram that was posted in Spanish read, "I settled in Barcelona to give my children a stability, the same we are now looking for in another corner of the world next to family, friends and the sea. Today we start a new chapter in the pursuit of their happiness. Thank you to everyone who surfed alongside me so many waves there in Barcelona, the city where I learned that friendship is certainly longer than love."

The overwhelmed singer ended the post by saying, "Thank you to everyone who has been there to cheer me up, dried my tears, inspired me and made me grow."

'Being a mum first'

Internet users took to the Twitter post to express their views on the singer's request for privacy for her sons. One user wrote, "That was very well written & from a mother’s heart. I wish the paparazzi will listen and respect your wishes. You are more gracious with your time for the paparazzi already. Now it’s time for mama bear to look after her cubs and I pray they give you the peace you are seeking."

Another fan commented on the English version of the post, "Being a mum first, Cudos to you." A third follower commented, "Extremely classy and thank you Shakira for showing the world what every celebrity wishes to say. I wish you the best in your journey and if you ever need any assistance, you can calm on me. In Christ, - T."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.