Following his death, protests have erupted in Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh, with protestors demanding justice.
Sharif Osman Hadi, a well-known student leader and political activist in Bangladesh, died on December 18 in Singapore after sustaining critical injuries in a targeted shooting last week. He was 32.
Hadi was flown to Singapore for advanced medical treatment following the attack and was admitted to Singapore General Hospital and the National Neuroscience Institute. Doctors had described his condition as extremely critical.
The medical evacuation was coordinated by Bangladesh’s interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. Singapore authorities are now assisting the Bangladesh High Commission in returning his body to Dhaka.
Shot During Election Campaign
The attack took place on December 12 in Dhaka while Hadi was campaigning as an independent candidate for the upcoming general elections from the Dhaka-8 constituency. He was shot in the head by unidentified assailants near a mosque on Culvert Road while travelling in a battery-operated auto-rickshaw.
Hadi was first taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, later shifted to Evercare Hospital, and subsequently flown to Singapore for further treatment.
Political Background
Hadi emerged as a prominent figure during the July 2024 student-led protests that contributed to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He served as a spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, a radical student platform. Despite the group being disbanded and barred from contesting elections, Hadi continued his political campaign.
Protests and Police Action
Following his death, protests have erupted in Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh, with protestors demanding justice. Police have launched a nationwide manhunt, releasing photographs of two prime suspects and announcing a reward of 5 million taka for information leading to their arrest. Security measures have been tightened across the country.
National Mourning Announced
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus announced that the national flag will be flown at half-mast across government offices, educational institutions, and Bangladesh missions abroad. Special prayers will be held after Jummah prayers on December 19.
The government has also declared a one-day national mourning on Saturday and pledged support to Hadi’s widow and child.
