Bangladesh is currently experiencing a period of profound unrest and instability, triggered by the tragic demise of Sharif Usman Hadi, the spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha. His death has ignited widespread violence and protests across the capital city of Dhaka and several other major urban centers. Usman Hadi, a prominent figure in the July rebellion and a prospective. Candidate for the 2025 elections, was assassinated, sending shockwaves throughout the nation.
Demise of Inqilab Mancha Spokesperson
Sharif Usman Hadi was a vocal spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha and a significant personality in Bangladeshi politics, while he sustained a severe head injury after being shot by unidentified assailants last week. After battling for his life for six days in a Singaporean hospital, he succumbed to his injuries on Thursday night. The news of his death quickly spread, sparking an outpouring of grief and anger that rapidly escalated into large-scale protests across the country.
Details of the Assassination Attempt
Sharif Usman Hadi was subjected to this fatal attack on December 12, in the Purana Paltan area of Dhaka. According to media reports, he was traveling in a battery-operated rickshaw, campaigning for the upcoming national elections, when an assailant on a motorcycle pursued him and opened fire. The bullet entered above his left ear and exited through the right side of his head, causing severe brain damage, while this brazen attack not only stunned his supporters but also the entire nation, highlighting the volatile political climate.
Treatment in Singapore and Tragic End
Immediately following the attack, Usman Hadi was rushed to Dhaka Medical. College Hospital (DMCH), where doctors performed surgery for his critical head injuries. However, his condition remained extremely critical. Doctors indicated that the bullet had caused extensive damage to his brain, while for advanced treatment, he was later transferred to Evercare Hospital and subsequently airlifted to Singapore on December 15. Despite six days of intensive care at Singapore General Hospital, he passed. Away on Thursday night, leaving his supporters and family in deep mourning.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus's Announcement
In response to Sharif Usman Hadi's passing, Bangladesh's Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, addressed the nation on Friday. He conveyed the profoundly sad news, describing Hadi as a fearless warrior of the July rebellion and the spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, while yunus pledged swift action to apprehend Hadi's killers and declared December 20 (Saturday) as a national day of mourning. During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all government, semi-government, and private buildings, as well as at Bangladeshi embassies abroad, while he also called for special prayers for Hadi's soul after Jumma prayers.
Nationwide Protests and Violence Erupt
As news of Hadi's death spread, groups of people gathered in front of newspaper offices in Dhaka, attacking and vandalizing them. Live videos circulating on social media showed protesters wielding sticks, causing damage to property. Fires were also observed on the road in front of Prothom Alo, and according to one newspaper, some employees were trapped inside both offices. This violence wasn't confined to Dhaka but also spread to several other cities across the country, leading to a severe law and order situation, while the protesters' anger was directed at those they held responsible for Hadi's death, and this fury also extended to media institutions.
Government's Commitment to Family Welfare
Sharif Usman Hadi's assassination has further destabilized Bangladesh's already tense electoral environment. He was considered a potential candidate for Dhaka-8 in the 2025 elections, and the attack occurred during his campaign. His death has created a significant void in the political landscape, and the ensuing protests have raised serious questions about the country's political stability, while this incident is expected to have a profound impact on the upcoming elections and could exacerbate tensions among political parties.
In his address, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus also announced that the government would assume. Responsibility for the welfare of the martyred Usman Hadi's wife and his only child. This measure is intended to support the family during this tragic time and ensure they don't face future hardships. The government has also made it clear that they will make every possible effort to bring the perpetrators. Of this heinous crime to justice, reinforcing their commitment to upholding law and order amidst the widespread unrest.
