Bangladesh's turmoil remains volatile as anger rises in Dhaka after protesters torched the offices of two leading newspapers. The unrest followed the killing of a former student leader Sharif Osman Hadi last week.

Dhaka

Widespread protests have erupted across Dhaka and university campuses in Bangladesh following the death of prominent student activist Sharif Osman Hadi. Hadi, who was shot by masked assailants and died after six days on life support, was a key figure in the 2024 pro-democracy uprising and a parliamentary candidate for the upcoming general election.

The unrest has included road blockades, clashes with security forces, and the torching of newspaper offices. Authorities have called for calm and pledged to investigate Hadi's killing, while demonstrators say his death has intensified their demands for political change ahead of the February elections.

Bangladesh: Key student activist's death sparks new protests

Fresh fury on the streets of Dhaka, as well as university campuses across Bangladesh. Thousands have taken to the streets, blocking roads and clashing with security forces following the news of Hadi's passing. We just want justice. Sharif Osman Hadi was shot in the head by masked assailants last week. He was on life support in Singapore for six days, but died of his injuries on Thursday. Hadi was a prominent student leader and a key figure in the 2024 pro-democracy uprising that shook Bangladesh and ultimately drove long-term Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power. He was running in next year's general election for a seat in parliament. Hadi was one of the key figures in upholding the July uprising. Regardless of political affiliation, he always called on us to unite. He consistently raised awareness against fascism and Indian imperialism. And he led his movement single-handedly. His death will remain a milestone for us. The demonstrations on Thursday night took a turn when mobs torched the offices of two leading newspapers. Trapped staff had to be rescued by authorities. Hadi was an outspoken critic of India, and protesters accused the papers of serving Indian interests in the Muslim-majority country. Some protesters felt this sent the wrong message. If the media makes mistakes, these should be open to criticism. But burning down an office is never acceptable. Media offices contain vital documents and important data. There's no justification for this. Such behaviour leads to fascist thinking, where mobs take the law into their own hands instead of seeking accountability through democratic means. The unrest highlights deep political tensions ahead of the upcoming elections in February. Authorities have called for calm and pledged investigations into Hadi's killing. On the streets, however, many say Hadi's death has intensified demands for change.

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