A large gathering at Shahbagh’s July Square on Friday announced a proposal for the sister of slain activist Sharif Osman Hadi to contest in the upcoming national parliamentary elections. Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha and a leading figure of the July Revolution movement, was recently killed, sparking widespread protests across Bangladesh. Participants at the rally also demanded that Shahbagh Square and Hadi’s Inquilab Cultural Center be renamed and brought under state patronage in his honor.

Thousands of supporters, including students, families, and activists, joined the rally carrying flags and chanting slogans against authoritarianism. Supreme Court lawyer S.M. Shahriar Kabir stated that Hadi’s death symbolizes resistance to oppression and called for recognition of his sacrifice. Protesters expressed anger over perceived government inaction and vowed to continue Hadi’s mission.

The proposal to nominate Hadi’s sister reflects growing political mobilization around his legacy. Observers say this move could influence youth participation and opposition dynamics ahead of the next general election.