Dhaka: Bangladesh witnessed widespread unrest on Friday following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, triggering protests, arson and clashes in several parts of the country and deepening political uncertainty ahead of next year’s national elections.
Hadi, a prominent youth figure who rose to national attention during the 2024 student movement, died after being shot during a political event earlier this month. He was undergoing treatment in Singapore but succumbed to his injuries, sparking anger among supporters and student groups across Bangladesh.
Soon after the news of his death spread, large crowds took to the streets in Dhaka and other major cities. Protesters blocked roads, set fire to vehicles and attacked offices linked to political parties and media organisations. Several newspaper offices were vandalised, forcing journalists to flee as tensions escalated.
Security forces were deployed in sensitive areas, but protests continued into the night in parts of the capital. Witnesses said anger was directed at the political establishment, with demonstrators demanding justice for Hadi and accountability for those responsible for the shooting.
The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, declared a day of state mourning and appealed for calm. Yunus promised a thorough investigation into Hadi’s death and said those involved would be brought to justice. He also held emergency meetings with senior officials to assess the security situation.
Hadi was known as a key organiser of the student platform Inqilab Mancha and had played an important role in last year’s mass protests that reshaped Bangladesh’s political landscape. His supporters see his killing as a targeted attack, a claim authorities say is still under investigation.
The unrest comes at a sensitive time for Bangladesh, with national elections scheduled for February next year amid deep political divisions. Analysts warn that continued violence could further destabilise the country and complicate efforts to hold a credible vote.
As of Friday evening, calm had returned to some areas, but protests were still reported in pockets of the capital. Authorities said security would remain tightened as the investigation into Sharif Osman Hadi’s death continues.