The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has removed all restrictions on the use of loudspeakers in parliamentary election campaigns, allowing candidates to deploy as many microphones as they wish within their constituencies. The decision comes through major amendments to the Political Parties and Candidates’ Code of Conduct 2025. Previously, candidates were limited to using three microphones per day. The EC also reduced the maximum fine for code violations from BDT 150,000 to BDT 100,000 and introduced several changes to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) 1972.

Election Commissioner Anwarul Islam Sarkar said the relaxation aims to make the election more festive and participatory. However, internal EC sources revealed growing criticism over the influence of inexperienced and controversial officials in drafting these changes, with some alleging procedural errors in the election schedule and candidate nomination process. Critics warned that such missteps could undermine the credibility of the upcoming 13th parliamentary polls.

The EC’s revisions also allow previously banned political groups to nominate candidates under certain conditions, raising concerns about fairness and impartiality in the electoral process.

Protests erupted across Bangladesh following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson for the Inquilab Mancha, whose passing late Thursday night triggered widespread outrage among students and activists. In response, the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) announced an 'anti-hegemony rally' at Shahbagh for Friday afternoon, leading to road closures as preparations for the event began early in the day.

Students from various halls of Dhaka University marched under the banner of 'Anti-Hegemony Students' to the TSC Raju Sculpture, demanding justice for Hadi’s death and the immediate arrest of those responsible. Crowds from different parts of the city gathered at Shahbagh, intensifying calls for accountability.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely amid concerns of further unrest. Hadi’s body is expected to arrive in the country Friday evening, and organizers have indicated that additional protest programs may follow depending on the government’s response to their demands.

Student and citizen groups in Bangladesh have announced a nationwide program to protest the killing of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, described by organizers as a leader in the anti-hegemony movement. The central event, an 'Anti-Hegemony Rally,' is scheduled for Friday afternoon at Shahbagh’s Shaheed Hadi Square in Dhaka, following prayer gatherings across mosques to pray for Hadi’s soul.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadik Kayem shared the announcement on his verified social media account, accusing ruling party activists of involvement in Hadi’s death. He called on students and the public to continue the movement against what he termed Indian dominance and political violence. The rally is expected to draw large crowds, with heightened security measures likely in the capital.

The protest comes amid rising political tension and sporadic violence in several districts. Analysts suggest the event could test the government’s tolerance for dissent and may influence the direction of ongoing student-led movements in the coming weeks.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has held the government responsible for the wave of violence that erupted across Bangladesh following the death of activist Sharif Osman Hadi. Hadi, a key figure in the July uprising and spokesperson for the Inquilab Mancha, died after being shot during a political campaign in Dhaka earlier this month. In a Facebook post on December 19, Fakhrul condemned the attacks on media outlets and journalists, calling the incidents acts of terrorism and demanding that the government take full responsibility.

Fakhrul accused the authorities of failing to protect citizens and warned that opportunistic groups were exploiting the national grief for destructive purposes. He reiterated BNP’s call for justice for Hadi’s killers and for all incidents of mob violence that have divided the nation. The opposition leader urged unity and accountability, emphasizing the need for a democratic, inclusive government after what he described as authoritarian rule.

The situation in Dhaka remains tense, with reports of arson and vandalism in several districts as political tensions continue to escalate.

International news outlets have widely covered the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent Bangladeshi student leader known for his anti-hegemony stance and role in the July Revolution. According to Al Jazeera, Hadi died at a hospital in Singapore despite doctors’ best efforts. The report noted that his death triggered widespread protests across Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh.

Indian media, including NDTV, The Times of India, The Hindu, and Anandabazar Patrika, highlighted the unrest that followed, reporting incidents of arson and attacks on media offices. NDTV described the situation as 'tense,' while The Hindu emphasized the violent turn of demonstrations. Pakistan’s Geo TV also reported mass protests and growing anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh.

Observers say Hadi’s death could intensify political polarization and youth activism in Bangladesh. Authorities are on alert as protests continue, and international attention remains focused on how the government manages the unfolding crisis.

The interim government of Bangladesh has suspended 14 secretariat employees following protests demanding increased salary allowances. The suspensions came after demonstrators allegedly confined Economic Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed to his office for over six hours during a December 10 protest. Officials from multiple ministries, including Public Administration, Health, Information, and Finance, were among those suspended. The government has labeled the actions as clear violations of civil service regulations.

Senior policymakers stated that the administration will maintain a zero-tolerance policy against rule-breaking, emphasizing that the government has already initiated processes to enhance employee benefits through formal channels. The unrest has created a climate of fear among secretariat staff, with many distancing themselves from the movement. Earlier this month, 42 primary school teachers involved in similar protests were transferred to other districts.

Observers note that the crackdown signals the government’s intent to assert discipline within the civil service. While a pay commission is reportedly in progress, officials warn that further unauthorized demonstrations could lead to additional disciplinary measures.

A group of unidentified attackers stormed the Chhayanaut Cultural Complex in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi area on Thursday night, vandalizing property and setting parts of the building on fire. According to Dhanmondi Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md. Saiful Islam, the assailants entered the premises, damaged furniture and other items, and ignited fires on the fourth and fifth floors. Fire service teams quickly arrived and brought the blaze under control, preventing major structural losses.

Television footage showed scattered and broken furniture across several rooms, highlighting the extent of the vandalism. Law enforcement personnel later dispersed the attackers and restored order. No casualties were immediately reported, and authorities have not yet confirmed the motive behind the assault.

The Chhayanaut building, a prominent center for Bangladeshi cultural and musical education, holds symbolic significance in Dhaka’s cultural life. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of cultural institutions and the need for enhanced security measures. Police have launched an investigation to identify those responsible and determine the cause of the attack.

Former youth and sports adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan has warned that protests will not stop unless those responsible for the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi are extradited to Bangladesh. Speaking at a protest rally in Dhaka’s Shahbagh on Thursday night, he said the fight for justice would intensify if the perpetrators remain sheltered abroad.

Mahmud accused the banned and fugitive Awami League and its allies of declaring war against the people through Hadi’s killing. He recalled the July uprising, saying that the people of Bangladesh had shed blood for freedom and would not retreat. Protesters from various walks of life gathered late into the night, demanding accountability and justice for Hadi’s death.

He further emphasized that Hadi’s struggle to sustain the July movement was peaceful and principled, rejecting any form of violence or opportunism. Mahmud urged supporters to continue Hadi’s mission through constructive political and cultural engagement, signaling that the movement’s next steps will depend on the government’s response to the extradition demand.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali has appealed for patience and restraint among demonstrators following the death of Osman Hadi, which triggered widespread protests and incidents of arson in several parts of the capital. The commissioner made the call late Thursday night, emphasizing that law enforcement officers were working intensively to restore order.

Hadi, who had been receiving treatment at Singapore General Hospital, passed away earlier in the day. News of his death quickly spread through social media, prompting spontaneous demonstrations and clashes in Dhaka. Commissioner Ali stated that police were taking all necessary measures to control the situation and ensure public safety. He assured protesters that a thorough and impartial investigation into Hadi’s death would be conducted.

Authorities have increased patrols and deployed additional forces in key areas of the city to prevent further escalation. The government has urged citizens to avoid violence as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding Hadi’s death.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Amir, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, has called on citizens to remain patient and composed amid the country’s current political and social tensions. In a Facebook post published Thursday night, he emphasized that patience is the greatest strength of the oppressed and urged followers to respond to the situation with wisdom and restraint.

Dr. Rahman’s message comes at a time when Bangladesh is witnessing heightened political unrest and public demonstrations in several areas. His appeal for patience appears aimed at calming supporters and discouraging confrontation. He also reminded citizens that the nation belongs to everyone and prayed for divine guidance to help people maintain unity and endurance.

Observers interpret the statement as an attempt by Jamaat leadership to project a peaceful stance while navigating a volatile political environment. The party’s future actions and its engagement with ongoing movements will likely shape its public image in the coming weeks.

Hefazat-e-Islam has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Manch, who succumbed to gunshot injuries while undergoing treatment in Singapore on Thursday night. Hadi, a prominent figure in the so-called July Revolution movement, was declared dead around 9:30 p.m., according to party sources.

In a joint statement, Hefazat’s Amir Shah Muhibullah Babunagari and Secretary General Allama Sajedur Rahman conveyed condolences to Hadi’s family and followers. They called for nationwide prayers and condemnation of his killing from mosque pulpits during Friday sermons. The organization described his death as a loss for the country’s Islamic and reformist movements.

Hadi’s body is expected to arrive in Bangladesh this evening, with supporters planning a rally in Shahbagh under the banner of an ‘anti-hegemony platform.’ Authorities have been urged to ensure calm amid heightened political tensions and sporadic unrest in several districts.

The interim government’s initiative to reopen six state-owned sugar mills—closed during the previous Awami League administration—has stalled a year after its announcement. Despite forming a 13-member task force and submitting funding requests to the Finance Ministry, no budget allocation has been approved. The mills in Shyampur, Setabganj, Rangpur, Panchagarh, Pabna, and Kushtia remain idle, deepening frustration among workers, officials, and sugarcane farmers.

According to officials, the Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation (BSFIC) sought over Tk 63 crore for two mills, but the Finance Ministry did not respond, citing lack of prior consent. Meanwhile, the Kushtia Sugar Mill is being considered for transfer to the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), sparking institutional disagreement. BSFIC has formally objected to the move, while BEZA argues the site is ideal for agro-processing investment.

The prolonged closure has reduced national sugar output and inflated prices, while unresolved debts and unpaid government dues continue to strain the sector. Without funding clarity, the reopening timeline remains uncertain.

National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam has called for sit-in demonstrations across all July Movement locations following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha. Hadi, who was injured by gunfire, passed away Thursday night while receiving medical treatment in Singapore. Nahid expressed deep sorrow over his death and urged supporters to remain active in the streets, particularly at Dhaka’s Shahbagh area after Friday prayers.

In a Facebook post early Friday, Nahid accused unnamed groups of conspiring to derail the July Movement and urged activists to protect media and institutions from disruption. He emphasized unity among movement supporters and called on them to uphold Hadi’s ideals. The July Movement, which has seen waves of demonstrations in recent months, continues to be a focal point of political tension.

Hadi’s body is expected to arrive in Bangladesh this evening, with further gatherings planned in Dhaka and other cities. Authorities are monitoring the situation amid heightened security concerns.

National Citizen Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam has pledged not to leave the streets until the dreams of Osman Sharif Hadi, a key figure in the so-called July Revolution, are realized. In a Facebook post late Thursday, Nahid paid tribute to Hadi, who reportedly died embracing martyrdom, calling his sacrifice a symbol of courage and justice.

Nahid’s statement has drawn attention amid renewed political mobilization by groups identifying with the 'Inquilab Mancha' movement. His post described Hadi’s death as an inspiration for millions in post-July Bangladesh and reaffirmed commitment to the ideals of fairness and reform that Hadi championed. Supporters have echoed his sentiments online, while authorities have yet to comment on the broader implications.

The declaration comes as preparations are underway for anti-hegemony rallies in Dhaka’s Shahbagh area, where traffic disruptions and heightened security are expected. Observers note that Hadi’s death may intensify political activism and deepen divisions between opposition groups and the government.

The Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) has announced a series of protest programs following the shooting death of activist Sharif Osman Bin Hadi. DUCSU Vice President Sadiq Kayem declared the initiative through a Facebook post, calling for nationwide student participation. The programs include a prayer service at the university’s central mosque after Friday prayers and an anti-hegemony rally at Shahbagh in the afternoon.

Hadi, described by supporters as a campaigner against Indian dominance, was reportedly shot dead by individuals alleged to be affiliated with the ruling Awami League. His death has sparked widespread outrage across several universities, including Chittagong, Islamic University, Jagannath University, and Rajshahi University, where students have staged demonstrations demanding justice.

Observers note that the incident could intensify existing political tensions on campuses. DUCSU leaders have vowed to continue their movement until those responsible are brought to justice, while authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the killing or the protests.