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The situation in Bangladesh has spiraled out of control following the death of Sharif Usman Hadi, spokesperson for the Inqilab platform. Violent protests erupted in several cities, including the capital Dhaka, with attacks on newspaper offices and incidents of arson reported.
Widespread Violence in Bangladesh Following Usman Hadi’s Death
Dhaka: Widespread tension has gripped Bangladesh following the death of Sharif Usman Hadi, spokesperson for the Inqilab Manch. Violent protests erupted in several major cities, including the capital Dhaka. Angry mobs targeted media outlets, and incidents of vandalism and arson were reported in multiple locations, making the situation extremely volatile.
Sharif Usman Hadi had been battling for his life at Singapore General Hospital for the past six days. He passed away on Thursday night while undergoing treatment. He had been critically injured last week when unknown assailants shot him in the head in Dhaka. He was taken to Singapore for better medical care.
Political turmoil in Bangladesh after death of Sharif Osman Hadi; Details inside
As news of Hadi's death spread, violence erupted in Dhaka. A group of people attacked and vandalized the offices of several newspapers. Videos circulating on social media showed protesters attacking with sticks and setting fires in the streets. An arson incident was reported outside the office of Prothom Alo, with some employees trapped inside the building.
According to media reports, Sharif Usman Hadi was a potential candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency in the upcoming national elections. On December 12, he was shot by a motorcycle-borne assailant during an election campaign event in the Purana Paltan area. The bullet entered above his left ear and exited from the other side of his head, causing severe brain damage.
Interim government head Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation, describing Hadi as a "fearless warrior of the July uprising." He assured swift action to apprehend the killers and declared a day of national mourning. Yunus stated that the government would take full responsibility for Hadi's family.
A day of national mourning will be observed throughout the country on December 20. The national flag will be flown at half-mast at government, semi-government, and private institutions, as well as at Bangladeshi embassies abroad. Special prayers will be held after the Friday prayers. Hady's assassination has further destabilized the country's electoral climate.
