The death of political activist Sharif Osman Hadi has sparked renewed debate in Bangladesh about the moral foundations of the state and the risks faced by dissenting voices. Hadi, described as a 'July warrior' and a fearless critic of authoritarianism, died abroad after being shot in Dhaka. His passing has raised questions about political violence, state protection, and the silence of major parties following his attack.

Hadi was known for his uncompromising stance against both domestic fascism and external political dominance. He viewed the state as a moral entity rooted in citizens’ dignity, voting rights, and freedom of speech. His advocacy for cultural independence and youth responsibility made him a symbol of alternative politics. Supporters saw him as a bridge between generations, while critics often labeled him 'too outspoken.'

Analysts say Hadi’s death underscores the fragility of dissent in Bangladesh’s political landscape. His legacy, centered on moral courage and sovereign integrity, continues to inspire younger activists demanding accountability and reform.

Osman Hadi, known as a July revolutionary and activist against perceived foreign dominance, has died after being shot in Dhaka on December 12. His brother Omar Hadi confirmed the death on Thursday night, December 18. Hadi had been under treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Evercare Hospital, and later Singapore General Hospital, but his condition did not improve.

The Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Liberation and Democratic Movement Secretary Fatima Tasnim Juma confirmed the news on social media, describing Hadi as a martyr in the struggle against Indian hegemony. His verified Facebook page also carried a similar message. The shooting occurred when Hadi was traveling in a battery-run rickshaw near Purana Paltan, and police have yet to identify the attackers.

Hadi’s death has sparked renewed calls for anti-hegemony protests, with several groups planning gatherings in Dhaka’s Shahbagh area. Authorities are preparing for potential unrest as his body is expected to arrive in Bangladesh this evening.

Following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, Chief Prosecutor of Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal Mohammad Tazul Islam expressed deep sorrow and admiration in a Facebook post on Thursday night. He wrote that Hadi would live forever in the hearts of millions of Bangladeshi youths, describing him as a symbol of courage and sacrifice.

The post came amid widespread mourning and social media tributes for Hadi, whose death has drawn emotional reactions across the country. Tazul Islam’s message reflected both personal grief and national sentiment, portraying Hadi as a figure who inspired young people through his ideals and activism. Other cultural figures, including poet Zia Haque, also shared poems and songs in his memory, which quickly went viral online.

Hadi’s funeral in Singapore reportedly faced administrative delays, adding to public attention surrounding his passing. The incident has reignited discussions about youth leadership, justice, and remembrance in Bangladesh’s civic and cultural spheres.

Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent activist and potential independent candidate for Dhaka-8, died in a Singapore hospital after sustaining gunshot injuries in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area last week. Known for his fiery speeches and leadership in the post-July uprising movements, Hadi had become a symbol of resistance for many young activists. His death follows months of threats and surveillance he claimed to have faced from political opponents.

Hadi, a Dhaka University political science graduate, founded the platform ‘Inquilab Moncho’ to campaign for justice and political reform after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. His activism focused on banning the Awami League and ensuring accountability for violence during the July events. Supporters praised his courage, while ruling party sympathizers viewed him as a divisive figure.

His death is expected to intensify political polarization and raise questions about activist safety in Bangladesh. Authorities have yet to confirm suspects or motives. Civil society groups have called for an independent investigation, fearing renewed unrest ahead of the next election cycle.

Sharaf Uddin Azad Sohel, vice president of Ramgati Upazila Awami League, has collected nomination papers to contest the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election from the Lakshmipur-4 (Ramgati-Kamalnagar) constituency. He obtained the documents from Assistant Returning Officer and Upazila Nirbahi Officer Nilufa Yasmin Nipa on Thursday afternoon, signaling his intent to run as an independent candidate.

Sohel, a two-time upazila chairman and long-time Awami League figure, has drawn criticism for his decision to seek candidacy outside the party banner. Local political and social circles have expressed surprise and discontent, citing his controversial past and alleged involvement in political violence during his tenure. Attempts to reach Sohel for comment were unsuccessful.

The returning officer stated she is new to the upazila and will review the matter further. Sohel’s move adds a new dimension to the electoral dynamics in Lakshmipur-4, where party loyalty and independent bids are expected to shape the upcoming contest.

The Rajshahi University administration has extended the tenure of 12 deans, including six identified as pro-Awami League, despite their official terms ending on December 17, 2025. The decision, approved by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saleh Hasan Nakib and Registrar Prof. Iftekharul Alam Masud, will remain in effect until new elections are held. The administration cited logistical reasons, including the recent convocation and upcoming admission tests, for delaying the election process.

The extension has triggered controversy on campus, with critics alleging political bias and lack of transparency. A senior faculty member argued that the move contradicts efforts toward institutional neutrality following the August 5 uprising. Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RACSU) General Secretary Salahuddin Ammar issued a public ultimatum demanding the deans’ resignation, warning of student action if they remain in office.

University officials defended the decision as temporary and procedural, noting that the extended deans will not participate in key policymaking meetings. However, tensions remain high, with observers warning that continued administrative politicization could deepen campus divisions ahead of the next academic cycle.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is set to finalize seat-sharing arrangements with its allied political parties within the next two days, according to party Standing Committee member Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed. Speaking to reporters after a meeting with 100 nominated candidates at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan, he confirmed that the party has already announced candidates for 266 constituencies.

Ahmed added that decisions on the remaining 36 seats will be made soon, emphasizing that the party is focusing on strengthening the electoral readiness of its nominees. BNP leaders are reportedly guiding candidates on campaign strategies and responsibilities aimed at aligning with public expectations.

The move comes as part of BNP’s broader effort to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the upcoming national elections. Political analysts suggest that the final seat-sharing decisions could shape the opposition’s overall electoral strength and coordination in key constituencies.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has formally applied for a travel pass at the Bangladesh High Commission in London, signaling his intent to return home on December 25 after 18 years in exile. Reliable sources confirmed that the application was submitted through an intermediary, and Rahman plans to travel on a regular Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight scheduled to land in Dhaka at 11:55 a.m. on the same day.

Party leaders, including BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, have confirmed the travel details, noting that Rahman’s return follows the resolution of his political asylum case in a London court. Despite years abroad, he reportedly did not accept a British passport. During a recent meeting organized by the UK chapter of BNP, Rahman publicly announced his decision to return, describing it as a personal and political milestone.

BNP supporters have expressed strong enthusiasm, viewing his homecoming as a turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Analysts suggest his return could reshape opposition dynamics and influence the party’s strategy ahead of future elections.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has called on citizens to remain calm and avoid falling into any destabilization attempts following the death of Inquilab Manch convener Sharif Osman Hadi. In a televised address to the nation on Thursday night, Yunus urged people not to react hastily or be influenced by misinformation and rumors circulating after the incident.

He emphasized that Hadi’s ideals and sacrifice should serve as a source of strength for the nation, calling for unity in upholding democracy, justice, and people’s rights. The Chief Adviser warned that those seeking to disrupt national stability would not succeed, asserting that fear, violence, or bloodshed cannot halt Bangladesh’s democratic progress.

The statement comes amid widespread mourning and heightened political tension. Observers noted that Yunus’s message aimed to prevent potential unrest and reinforce public confidence in the interim government’s commitment to peace and democratic transition.

National Citizens Party (NCP) South Region chief organizer Hasnat Abdullah has called for calm and unity among supporters following heightened political tension surrounding the death of activist Hadi. In a Facebook post on Thursday night, Abdullah emphasized the importance of rebuilding rather than destruction, urging followers to remain peaceful and committed to collective strength.

His message came as protests and anti-hegemony gatherings were being planned in Dhaka’s Shahbagh area, where traffic disruptions were reported. Abdullah’s remarks appeared aimed at preventing escalation and maintaining organizational discipline. He stressed honesty, transparency, and cultural resilience as key principles to preserve Hadi’s legacy.

Observers see the appeal as an attempt to stabilize the NCP’s southern base and prevent unrest from spreading. With Hadi’s body expected to arrive in the country soon, authorities are preparing for large-scale gatherings, while political leaders continue to call for restraint and dialogue.

Violent protests erupted in Dhaka late Thursday night following news of the death of activist Sharif Osman Hadi, who had been receiving treatment in Singapore. Crowds of students and citizens gathered near the Prothom Alo office in Karwan Bazar, breaking windows, damaging furniture, and setting fire to papers and equipment inside the building. The building’s feature and accounts departments suffered significant damage.

Shortly after, the same group reportedly moved to The Daily Star office on Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, where they set fire to the ground floor, causing panic among journalists and staff. Firefighters later brought the blaze under control, while police and army personnel were deployed to secure the area. Traffic in the surrounding roads was halted during the unrest.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the extent of the damage or whether arrests have been made. The attacks have raised concerns about press freedom and public safety amid growing political tension in the capital.

Bangladeshi writer, activist, and political analyst Pinaki Bhattacharya has called on citizens to remain calm and avoid rash actions amid ongoing political unrest. In a Facebook post on Thursday night, Bhattacharya urged supporters and the public to exercise patience, emphasizing that the nation’s political struggle is a long-term process. He specifically mentioned reports that several journalists were trapped inside The Daily Star building, requesting that the army be allowed to safely rescue them.

Bhattacharya’s message comes at a time of heightened tension and sporadic violence in Dhaka and other cities, as political groups continue to clash over governance and press freedom. His appeal for restraint has been widely shared online, drawing both support and criticism from different political factions. Observers note that such calls for calm from prominent civil voices may help reduce immediate confrontations.

Analysts suggest that the situation remains fluid, with security forces maintaining a visible presence in key areas. Further developments are expected as authorities work to stabilize the situation and ensure the safety of journalists and civilians.

Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the political platform Inquilab Mancha, passed away while undergoing treatment at Singapore General Hospital. His first funeral prayer was held Friday morning at Angullia Mosque in Singapore. According to family and organizational sources, his body will be flown to Dhaka on a Bangladesh Biman commercial flight departing at 3:50 p.m. local time, with arrival expected at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 6:05 p.m. Bangladesh time.

Dr. Md. Abdul Ahad, a neurosurgeon at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and member secretary of the National Health Alliance, confirmed the details of the repatriation. Upon arrival in Dhaka, necessary formalities will be completed before a second funeral prayer and burial on Saturday at the family graveyard. Hadi’s death has triggered deep mourning among political colleagues and supporters, who described him as a dedicated activist and voice for reform.

The Inquilab Mancha leadership said arrangements are being made for a large public attendance at the Dhaka funeral, reflecting Hadi’s influence in grassroots political movements.

Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the political platform Inkilab Mancha, passed away while undergoing treatment at Singapore General Hospital. His death has sparked deep sorrow among political circles and members of his organization. According to official statements, his body will be flown to Dhaka on Friday afternoon via a Bangladesh Biman commercial flight, expected to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 6:05 p.m.

Dr. Md. Abdul Ahad, a neurosurgeon at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and member secretary of the National Health Alliance, confirmed the details of the repatriation. Family sources said that after completing necessary formalities, Hadi’s funeral prayer will be held on Saturday, followed by burial at his family graveyard. Political colleagues and supporters have expressed condolences, remembering his contributions to the organization.

The passing of Hadi marks a significant loss for Inkilab Mancha, which has been active in youth and reformist political movements. The group is expected to hold a memorial event following his burial.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is set to deliver a televised address to the nation following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, the convener of the Inquilab Mancha movement. The speech will be broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television and BTV News, according to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Thursday night.

Hadi, who had been critically injured by gunfire earlier this month, passed away on Thursday in a Singapore hospital while undergoing treatment. His death has sparked widespread public reaction and renewed discussions about political violence and accountability in Bangladesh. Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes, including poems and songs dedicated to Hadi.

Yunus’s address is expected to focus on the government’s response to the incident, calls for calm, and possible measures to prevent further unrest. Observers suggest the speech could mark a pivotal moment for the interim administration as it navigates rising political tensions and public demands for justice.