Bangladesh Election Candidate Sharif Osman Hadi Shot in Dhaka Ahead of February Polls

A youth leader and election candidate was shot in Dhaka on Friday. The attack took place on December 12, 2025. It targeted Sharif Osman Hadi, a spokesperson of Inqilab Mancha and an independent candidate. The shooting happened in the busy Bijoynagar area as he launched his campaign.

Police said three men on a motorbike carried out the attack. The incident came less than a day after the Election Commission confirmed the February 12 general election date. It has raised fresh fears about safety during the Bangladesh election season.

Bangladesh Election Security Under Scrutiny After Shooting

Hadi was shot near DR Tower on Box Culvert Road at 2.25 p.m. According to Dhaka police, the attackers fled the scene within seconds. The shooting left Hadi critically injured.

Doctors at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital said a bullet was lodged in his head. The hospital director told the Prothom Alo newspaper that he was placed on life support. His condition remained extremely fragile.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus condemned the attack. He said the incident was “completely unacceptable” in an election climate. According to BSS, he ordered law enforcement to launch a fast and full investigation. He also called for the suspects to be arrested without delay.

Inqilab Mancha has played a major role in recent political shifts. It rose after mass protests in 2024 that forced the Awami League government from power. Reuters and other outlets have noted growing tension across Dhaka as the election nears. The timing of the shooting has only deepened public concern.

Tensions Rise as Inqilab Mancha Pushes Its Campaign

The group has been at the center of a strong campaign to bar the former ruling Awami League from future elections. The interim government led by Yunus disbanded the party earlier this year. It also blocked its candidates from running in the coming polls.

Hadi was a visible figure in this movement. His shooting has sparked fear among supporters and rivals alike. Many now worry about more violence in the weeks ahead.

Election watchers say any attack on a candidate can weaken voter trust. It can also raise questions about whether security forces can protect the process. The Bangladesh election carries high stakes as the country works to stabilize its political landscape.

The coming weeks will test the government’s promise of a safe Bangladesh election. The attack on Hadi shows how fragile the atmosphere remains. Many citizens now hope security forces can prevent more violence.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Sharif Osman Hadi?

He was shot by unidentified men while opening his campaign in Dhaka. Police said three attackers on a motorcycle carried out the shooting. He is now in critical condition.

Q2: Why is the attack linked to the Bangladesh election?

Hadi is an election candidate. The attack happened one day after the election date was announced. This raised concern about safety during the campaign period.

Q3: Who condemned the shooting?

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus condemned it. He ordered a full investigation. He said violence cannot be accepted in an election period.

Q4: What is Inqilab Mancha?

It is a right‑wing cultural and political group. It rose after the 2024 protests that removed the Awami League. It is active in the current political environment.

Q5: What is known about the suspects?

Police said they were three men on a motorcycle. They fled the scene quickly. No arrests have been reported so far.