Sharif Osman Hadi Dies in Singapore After Assassination Attempt

Sharif Osman Hadi, a key Bangladeshi protest leader, died on Thursday in Singapore. He passed away after an assassination attempt in Dhaka. The death was confirmed by the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He had been moved to Singapore for emergency care after a gunshot wound to the head. His death has caused deep shock across Bangladesh.

Hadi was a central figure in the 2024 student uprising. He rose to national attention during mass protests against the former government. His supporters saw him as a strong voice for change. His killing has now triggered renewed tensions ahead of the national election.

Sharif Osman Hadi’s Death Sparks Fresh Tension in Bangladesh

Doctors in Dhaka first treated Hadi after he was shot on December 12. He had been riding in a battery-powered rickshaw on Culvert Road when unknown attackers opened fire. According to Reuters, he was rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later moved to Evercare Hospital. His condition grew worse, and he was flown to Singapore General Hospital on December 15.

Singapore officials said he died on December 18 despite intensive treatment. He was being cared for in the Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit. Authorities in Singapore are now working with the Bangladesh High Commission to send his body back home. The process is expected to move quickly due to security concerns.

Hadi was a senior member of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student-led group. He was also running as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 seat in the upcoming February election. Inqilab Mancha became known during the July uprising that helped push out former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. The current interim government later disbanded the group.

Bangladesh Interim Government Promises Full Investigation

Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation after the news broke. He called Hadi a “fearless frontline fighter” of the July uprising. He also declared a one-day state mourning. According to AP News, Yunus promised a complete investigation into the shooting.

The interim leader urged the public to stay calm. He said the government will not tolerate attempts to silence political voices. He also said the attackers wanted to intimidate activists before the election. His remarks targeted elements linked to the former ruling party, though no group has claimed responsibility.

The killing has increased fears of political violence during the upcoming polls. Supporters of Hadi held small protests in Dhaka after his death was announced. They called for justice and stronger protection for student activists. Security forces have increased patrols in key parts of the capital.

The death of Sharif Osman Hadi marks a tense moment for Bangladesh. Many now fear more unrest as the election draws near. His name has become a central focus in the debate over political safety and free speech.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: Who was Sharif Osman Hadi?

He was a leader of the student-led group Inqilab Mancha. He gained attention during the 2024 uprising. He was also running as an independent candidate for Dhaka-8.

Q2: How did Sharif Osman Hadi die?

He died from a gunshot wound to the head. He was flown to Singapore for treatment but did not recover. His death was confirmed on December 18.

Q3: Why was he targeted?

No group has claimed responsibility. He was a well-known protest leader. Police say they are still investigating.

Q4: What happens next in the investigation?

The interim government says a full inquiry will be launched. Officials promise to find those involved. They also plan to increase security for activists.

Q5: What is Inqilab Mancha?

It is a radical student-led movement. It rose during the July uprising that helped topple the former government. The group was later disbanded by the interim authorities.