Tens of Thousands Mourn Sharif Osman Hadi in Dhaka
Thousands of mourners gathered in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Saturday, December 20, 2025, for the funeral of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent youth leader who died after being shot earlier this month. The funeral took place under tight security near the Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament) complex, drawing large crowds amid heightened political tensions ahead of the country’s February 2026 parliamentary elections.
Funeral and Public Reaction
Mourners carried Bangladeshi flags and chanted slogans, including pledges that Hadi’s “blood will not go in vain,” reflecting deep emotion following his death. His body was laid to rest on the Dhaka University campus, beside the grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, as announced by his supporters. Ceremonial prayers were offered in a packed funeral area, with many citizens attending despite restrictions on access to the burial site.
Background and Unrest
Hadi, 32, was a spokesperson for the Inqilab Moncho cultural and political platform and a key figure in protests during last year’s movement that ended the long tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He was shot in Dhaka on 12 December 2025 and flown to Singapore for medical treatment, where he died from his injuries on 18 December. His death has sparked nationwide protests and unrest, including attacks on media offices and calls for accountability and justice.
Political Context
The government declared a day of national mourning for the funeral, and authorities deployed additional security forces to maintain order. The unfolding events underscore Bangladesh’s volatile political climate as it prepares for a crucial election amid deep divisions and public anger.
