Bangladesh Election Candidate Sharif Osman Hadi Shot in Dhaka Ahead of February Polls
A prominent youth leader and independent election candidate, Sharif Osman Hadi, was critically injured in a shooting in Dhaka on December 12, 2025, raising serious concerns over election security ahead of the country’s February general polls. Hadi, spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, was targeted while campaigning in the busy Bijoynagar area.
According to Dhaka police, three men on a motorbike carried out the attack near DR Tower on Box Culvert Road at around 2:25 p.m. The assailants fled within seconds. Hadi was struck in the head and is currently on life support at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital, with doctors describing his condition as extremely fragile.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus condemned the attack as “completely unacceptable” in the current election climate and ordered a swift investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Inqilab Mancha, a political group that rose to prominence following the 2024 mass protests that led to the Awami League’s ouster, has been campaigning to bar the former ruling party from contesting in the upcoming elections. Hadi, a visible figure in this movement, has become a focal point of concern after the shooting.
The incident comes less than a day after the Election Commission confirmed February 12 as the date for the general election, further heightening fears of political violence and public unease. Analysts warn that attacks on candidates can undermine voter confidence and raise serious questions about the ability of security forces to protect the electoral process.
As Bangladesh approaches its crucial February vote, tensions remain high, and the shooting of Hadi underscores the volatile political environment and the urgent need for robust election security measures.
