Bangladesh saw protests and violence after youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi died from an assassination attempt, with demonstrators demanding justice and authorities launching a manhunt.
Nepal Verified News
Fri Dec 19 2025
Bangladesh plunged into chaos early Friday as thousands of protesters took to the streets following the death of 32-year-old youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who succumbed to injuries from a December 12 assassination attempt while receiving treatment in Singapore.
Hadi, a prominent figure in the 2024 pro-democracy uprising that ended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic rule, was running for a parliamentary seat in the February 2026 elections.
Protesters set fire to several buildings, including the offices of major newspapers Daily Star and Prothom Alo, blocked highways, and attacked the residence of a former minister in Chattogram. Police also dispersed crowds outside the house of India’s deputy ambassador.
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, called Hadi’s death an “irreparable loss” and urged peaceful continuation of the democratic movement. Special prayers and half-day mourning were announced.
Police have launched a manhunt for the attackers, offering a 5 million taka reward for information. Hadi’s death has heightened tensions ahead of the February 2026 national elections.
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