Sharif Osman Hadi, a central figure in Bangladesh’s post-July uprising politics and founder of the political-cultural platform Inqilab Manch, has died following gunshot injuries sustained during an election campaign in Dhaka. His brother confirmed the death on Thursday night. Hadi had recently announced his candidacy as an independent for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election from Dhaka-8 constituency.

A former university lecturer and political science graduate from Dhaka University, Hadi rose to prominence after the 2024 July uprising, advocating for the banning of the Awami League and voicing anti-India sentiments. His activism, including protests at Bangabhaban and involvement in controversial demonstrations, made him both a popular and polarizing figure. He had previously claimed to receive multiple death threats.

His death has sparked renewed debate about political violence and security for independent candidates. Observers note that Hadi’s outspoken positions and grassroots mobilization reflected a growing trend of alternative political movements in Bangladesh’s volatile post-uprising landscape.