Bangladesh Faces Turmoil: Youth Leader's Death Sparks Nationwide Unrest

Dhaka Braces for Funeral of Slain Student Leader

Bangladesh is on high alert as police and paramilitary forces prepare for the funeral of Sharif Osman Hadi, a key figure in the student-led uprising that toppled longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year.

A Nation in Mourning

Hadi's death has sparked a wave of violence across the country. Masked attackers shot him in the head last week, and he passed away on Thursday night in Singapore after six days on life support. His death has led to mob attacks on major newspapers and cultural institutions.

Elections Amidst Turmoil

Bangladesh is set to elect a new parliament on February 12, with many hoping this will bring stability. The country has been unstable for nearly two years and seeks to reclaim its position as a regional success story.

However, violent protests and political conflicts continue to pose challenges. Clashes with Islamist hardliners have dampened the national euphoria that followed Hasina's ouster in August 2024.

Interim Government Faces Challenges

Analysts say the situation highlights the struggles of the interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus. Questions are being raised about his control over the country, which is the world's largest apparel producer after China.

Calls for Justice and Stability

The government has declared Saturday a day of state mourning for Hadi and urged citizens to resist mob violence. Human Rights Watch has condemned his killing, calling it a "terrible act" and urging the government to halt the violence.

Attacks on Media and Free Expression

Rights groups warn that continued attacks could shrink civic space ahead of the election. Bangladesh ranks 149th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index.

Demonstrations and Anti-India Sentiment

Demonstrations have continued in the Shahbagh area of the capital, with crowds demanding justice for Hadi. Violence has spread beyond Dhaka, including an attack on the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong, reflecting growing anti-India sentiment.

Election Threats and Uncertainty

Hasina's party, the Awami League, has been barred from the election and has threatened unrest. Some fear this could derail the vote, further complicating Bangladesh's fragile democratic transition.