BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas declared that the return of acting party chairman Tarique Rahman will mark the revival of democracy in Bangladesh. Speaking at a preparatory meeting in Dhaka’s Gopibagh area on Saturday, Abbas said the people are ready to welcome Tarique, linking his homecoming with the democratic legacy of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia.

Abbas accused anti-national forces of trying to destabilize the country through violence and conspiracies, citing recent arson attacks on media offices. He criticized the government for allegedly siding with such elements instead of cooperating with the BNP to ensure peace. Abbas reiterated that the BNP introduced multiparty democracy and remains committed to protecting it against authoritarian tendencies.

The remarks come amid heightened political tension ahead of Tarique Rahman’s anticipated return. Abbas warned that undemocratic forces cannot survive against popular will, urging the government to act against mob violence. His comments signal BNP’s attempt to rally supporters and frame Tarique’s return as a turning point for democratic restoration.

A group of students under the banner of the Conscious Students’ Society (BASSHIS) installed a signboard naming a section of Paltan Culvert Road as 'Shaheed Osman Hadi Road' on Saturday. The initiative took place at the exact location where activist and Inquilab Mancha convener Sharif Osman Hadi was shot on December 12 while riding a rickshaw in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area.

Hadi, who sustained a critical head injury from the gun attack, was first treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital before being transferred to a private hospital and later flown to Singapore for advanced care. He succumbed to his injuries there on Friday. Students displayed banners and festoons to honor his memory, calling him a revolutionary figure of July’s movement.

The symbolic renaming reflects growing student outrage and grief over Hadi’s killing. Authorities have yet to announce arrests or progress in the investigation, while civic groups continue to demand justice and official recognition of his contributions.

A group of people attempted to enter Bangladesh’s National Parliament complex in Dhaka on Saturday following the funeral prayer of Osman Hadi. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m., when attendees moved toward the main gates of the parliament building. On-duty army personnel immediately intervened, forming a security cordon and urging the crowd through loudspeakers to disperse peacefully.

Witnesses reported that the group stood in front of the army cordon for some time before eventually retreating. No violence or injuries were reported during the standoff. Security forces maintained their positions at the gates to prevent any breach of the restricted area.

Authorities have not yet commented on the motive behind the attempted entry. The incident underscores heightened public emotion surrounding Osman Hadi’s death and the government’s focus on maintaining order near key state institutions. Additional security measures are expected to remain in place around the parliament complex in the coming days.

Thousands gathered at Dhaka’s Manik Mia Avenue on Saturday, December 20, 2025, to attend the funeral prayer of Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the July Fighters and Inquilab Mancha. The event drew a massive turnout, including Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, members of the advisory council, political leaders, and citizens from across the country. Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) leaders Sadiq Kayem and S.M. Farhad were seen in tears during the ceremony.

Before the prayer, Dr. Yunus addressed the crowd, describing the overwhelming attendance as a reflection of Hadi’s enduring influence and the nation’s collective grief. He stated that millions across Bangladesh and abroad were united in mourning, emphasizing that Hadi’s legacy would remain in the hearts of all Bangladeshis.

The funeral, led by Hadi’s elder brother Maulana Abu Bakar, symbolized a moment of national unity and remembrance. Observers noted that the emotional farewell underscored Hadi’s role as a figure of resistance and inspiration for youth movements in Bangladesh.

Residents of Nalchhiti municipality in Jhalakathi district are mourning the death of revolutionary figure Sharif Osman Hadi, whose home and former educational institution, SS Kamil Madrasa, have become centers of grief. Locals expressed deep sorrow for not being able to see him one last time and have called for the highest punishment for those responsible for his killing.

Teachers, classmates, and residents recalled Hadi as a fearless voice of protest since childhood. He began his education at Neserabad NS Kamil Madrasa in 2000, completing his Dakhil and Alim degrees by 2009, and later graduated from the University of Dhaka. Known for his leadership during the 2024 mass uprising, Hadi was regarded as a symbol of courage and activism in his community.

The killing has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice across Jhalakathi and beyond. Memorial prayers have been held in several districts, with many describing Hadi as an enduring inspiration against oppression and authoritarianism.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus paid tribute to martyr Osman Hadi during his funeral at Manik Mia Avenue on Saturday, emphasizing that Hadi’s teachings and ideals would continue to inspire the nation. Addressing mourners before the funeral prayer, Yunus said Hadi’s compassion, humility, and political vision had earned admiration across society and should remain a guiding force for Bangladesh’s future.

The funeral, held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, drew hundreds of thousands of people, including members of the advisory council, political leaders, and citizens from all walks of life. Imam Abu Bakar, Hadi’s elder brother, led the prayer. Hadi, known as a spokesperson for the July Fighters and the Inquilab Mancha, was remembered for his activism and commitment to social justice.

Observers noted that the massive turnout reflected Hadi’s influence on Bangladesh’s contemporary political movements. The interim government’s participation signaled an effort to unify diverse political groups around shared values of humanity and reform.

An absentia funeral prayer was held in Jhalokathi on Saturday for revolutionary martyr Osman Hadi, drawing large crowds from various walks of life. The prayer took place at the Jhalokathi Eidgah field following the noon prayer, where participants gathered to honor Hadi, who was recently killed under disputed circumstances.

Before the funeral, local leaders including NCP district convener Mainul Islam Manna, Gonodhikar Parishad candidate Mahmudul Hasan Sagor, and representatives from Islami Chhatra Shibir addressed the gathering. They demanded immediate action through Interpol to arrest those responsible for Hadi’s killing, warning of strict protest programs if arrests were not made by Sunday morning.

The event reflects growing political tension and public anger surrounding Hadi’s death. Organizers said similar prayers were being held in other districts, signaling a widening movement seeking accountability and justice for the slain activist.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the killing of Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson for the July Revolutionary and Inqilab Mancha in Bangladesh, and called for a swift, transparent, and impartial investigation in line with international human rights standards. His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, shared the statement during a briefing at UN headquarters in New York, extending condolences to Hadi’s family and urging calm ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming national elections.

The UN Human Rights Commission had earlier expressed deep concern over the incident, urging the Bangladeshi government to ensure accountability and conduct a thorough, unbiased inquiry. High Commissioner Volker Türk emphasized the need to maintain peace and prevent further violence. The calls come amid heightened political tensions and sporadic unrest as Bangladesh prepares for elections, with international observers closely monitoring developments.

Analysts suggest that the UN’s intervention underscores growing global concern over political violence and human rights conditions in Bangladesh. The government’s response and the transparency of the investigation are expected to shape international perceptions in the coming weeks.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus delivered an emotional tribute to martyred Osman Hadi bin Hadi during his funeral prayer at Manik Mia Avenue on Saturday, December 20, 2025. Addressing mourners before the janaza, Dr. Yunus said he had not come to bid farewell but to reaffirm that Hadi’s spirit would remain with the nation forever.

In his remarks, Dr. Yunus emphasized that Hadi’s message of freedom and sovereignty would continue to inspire Bangladesh’s journey toward a just and independent future. He urged citizens to carry forward the ideals Hadi stood for, pledging that his government would preserve the values of independence and unity. The funeral drew a massive crowd, including young people carrying the national flag, reflecting the widespread respect for Hadi’s sacrifice.

The event underscored a moment of national solidarity, with the interim government reaffirming its commitment to the principles of democracy and national dignity that Hadi symbolized.

Multiple houses belonging to former State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury and two former mayors, Aslam and Abdus Sabur, were set on fire in Bochaganj upazila of Dinajpur on Friday night. The incidents occurred around 8 p.m. in the Dhanatola area of Setabganj village, reportedly after a group of agitated locals attacked the properties. Police and fire service units from Setabganj and Kaharol quickly responded, bringing the blaze under control within half an hour. No casualties were reported, though furniture and household items were destroyed.

Local residents said the unrest followed the circulation of a viral video showing Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury allegedly making controversial remarks about Sharif Osman Hadi. The video’s spread across social media reportedly fueled anger in the area. Law enforcement has cordoned off the site, and senior police officials have visited to assess the situation. Fire officials stated that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fires.

Authorities have urged calm as tensions remain high in the region, with police maintaining heightened security to prevent further violence.

The body of Shaheed Osman Hadi arrived at the Dhaka University Central Mosque premises on Saturday afternoon, where he was laid to rest beside the grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The funeral took place earlier in the day at Manik Mia Avenue near the National Parliament, drawing hundreds of thousands of mourners from diverse political, professional, and social backgrounds.

The funeral procession was accompanied by Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadiq Kayem and several associates. Leaders and activists from the Inquilab Mancha, including its General Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber, were also present. The large public participation reflected widespread respect and emotional solidarity across the nation.

Observers noted that the burial site’s proximity to Nazrul’s grave symbolizes Hadi’s perceived role as a figure of resistance and sacrifice. Authorities ensured tight security around the area as the nation paid its final tribute to the slain activist.

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus attended the funeral of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha and a key figure in the July Revolution, held on Saturday at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka. Hadi’s body was brought from Singapore, where he died during treatment following a gun attack earlier this month.

According to hospital officials, Hadi’s autopsy was completed at the Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital before his body was taken to the National Parliament’s South Plaza for public homage. Dr. Abdul Ahad of Dhaka Medical College confirmed the completion of the post-mortem. Hadi had been shot in the head on December 12 while campaigning in the Bijoynagar area and was later transferred to Singapore for advanced treatment.

The funeral drew large crowds, including political leaders, activists, and citizens. His death has sparked renewed discussions about political violence and security for public figures in Bangladesh. Authorities have yet to announce any arrests related to the shooting.

The body of Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of the Inqilab Mancha and a leading figure of the July Revolution, was taken to Dhaka University’s central mosque for burial beside the grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The funeral prayer was held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building before the ambulance carrying Hadi’s body departed for the university on Saturday afternoon.

Hadi, who was shot in the head during a public outreach event in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area on December 12, succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment in Singapore last Thursday. His body arrived in Bangladesh on Friday evening and was kept at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases morgue. Following an autopsy at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, the body was brought to Manik Mia Avenue for the funeral rites.

Medical officials confirmed that the autopsy concluded at 11:45 a.m. Saturday. Hadi’s death has drawn widespread mourning, with political and civic groups calling for a transparent investigation into the shooting incident.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) volunteers were deployed on Saturday to assist law enforcement in maintaining order during the burial of Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of the Inquilab Mancha. The volunteers, wearing DUCSU security vests, took positions around the Dhaka University Central Mosque area, where Hadi was laid to rest beside the tomb of poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.

Authorities heightened security across Shahbagh, Katabon, Nilkhet, and the broader university area to prevent any potential unrest following the funeral prayers. DUCSU representatives stated that the deployment was a precautionary measure to ensure a peaceful burial and to avoid any untoward incidents. Witnesses reported a calm atmosphere as both volunteers and police coordinated crowd management.

The burial of Hadi, regarded as a martyr by supporters, drew significant public attention. Officials indicated that security measures would remain in place temporarily to ensure post-funeral stability in the area.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) A.K. Khandaker, Bir Uttam, a key organizer of the 1971 Liberation War. Khandaker served as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Mukti Bahini and later became the first Chief of Air Staff of independent Bangladesh. In his condolence message, Yunus described Khandaker as an indomitable freedom fighter whose leadership and courage played a decisive role in the country’s independence.

Professor Yunus highlighted Khandaker’s contributions to building the Bangladesh Air Force into a disciplined and effective institution after independence. He also noted Khandaker’s later years as an author who faced political backlash for writing about the true history of the Liberation War. Yunus praised his honesty, patriotism, and commitment to national ideals.

The Chief Adviser said the nation has lost a valiant son and extended condolences to Khandaker’s family, comrades, and admirers. His legacy, Yunus added, will continue to inspire future generations of Bangladeshis.