Dhaka: Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent figure during the July Uprising and spokesperson for the Inqilab Mancha, has died in a Singapore hospital after a six-day battle for his life, announced Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in a national address tonight. His passing was confirmed by Singapore’s Foreign Minister Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Yunus expressed profound sorrow over Hadi’s untimely death, describing it as an irreparable loss to the country’s political and democratic realms. He announced a one-day state mourning on Saturday, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast across all government and private entities. Prof Yunus also communicated the government’s commitment to supporting Hadi’s surviving family.
Hadi, who was also an independent candidate for Dhaka-8, was shot on December 12 while traveling in a battery-operated auto-rickshaw in Paltan, Dhaka. Prof Yunus thanked the Singaporean government and Dr. Balakrishnan for their dedicated care during Hadi’s treatment.
The Chief Adviser vowed that those responsible for Hadi’s death would face justice without leniency. He called Hadi a symbol of protest and patriotism, emphasizing the need for patience and trust in law enforcement during the investigation.
Prof Yunus urged citizens to draw strength from Hadi’s ideals and remain united against destabilizing forces, underscoring that the country’s democratic process will continue uninterrupted. He concluded by encouraging the nation to honor Hadi’s legacy by advancing with resolve towards democracy, justice, and the people’s rights.