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‘No Justice, No Election’: Bangladesh’s interim government has stepped into a highly sensitive political moment by announcing a fast-track trial in the killing of activist and political organiser Sharif Osman Hadi. The decision comes amid rising political pressure, public protests, and warnings from his supporters that national elections could face serious disruption if justice is delayed. The announcement reflects both the urgency of the situation and the fragile state of law and order as the country moves closer to a critical electoral phase.

Rising Pressure On The Interim Administration

The fast-track trial decision was announced only hours after leaders of Inquilab Mancha, the political platform led by Sharif Osman Hadi, issued a strong warning to interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus. The group made it clear that holding elections without completing the murder trial would be unacceptable. This ultimatum has added to the already intense political atmosphere, where protests and targeted violence have become increasingly frequent.

Inquilab Mancha leaders argue that justice is a prerequisite for any credible election. According to them, proceeding to the polls without accountability would undermine public trust and deepen political instability. Their warning reflects a broader frustration among sections of civil society who believe that unresolved political violence threatens democratic processes.

Ultimatum From Inquilab Mancha

At a press conference held outside the National Museum in Shahbagh, Inquilab Mancha member secretary Abdullah Al Jaber stated that the movement would actively oppose elections if those responsible for Hadi’s killing were not brought to justice. He warned that ignoring their demand would lead to widespread street agitation, further escalating tensions in the capital and beyond.

Jaber stressed that the interim administration has a moral and political responsibility to prioritise accountability before pushing the nation toward elections. While acknowledging that Muhammad Yunus attended Hadi’s funeral, he emphasized that symbolic gestures were not enough. Concrete legal action, he said, was the only way to restore confidence. The group later planned protest marches to decide its next steps, signalling that their agitation could intensify.

The Killing Of Sharif Osman Hadi

Sharif Osman Hadi was a prominent organiser of the July uprising and the convener of Inquilab Mancha. He was shot by unidentified assailants on December 12 in Dhaka’s Paltan area. After the attack, he was flown to Singapore for medical treatment, but he succumbed to his injuries on December 18. His death sent shockwaves across Bangladesh and quickly became a symbol of the country’s deteriorating political security.

Following his killing, protests erupted in several cities. Demonstrations, strikes, and rallies highlighted public anger over political violence and perceived impunity. The unrest has not remained limited to political spaces, as attacks on media organisations, cultural institutions, and public venues have also been reported.

Growing Concerns Over Law And Order

Adding to the sense of crisis, another shooting incident was reported in Khulna, where a senior labour wing leader of the National Citizens Party was attacked. Md Motaleb Shikdar, a central organiser of the party’s labour body Jatiya Sramik Shakti, was shot by unidentified assailants at a residence in the Sonadanga area.

Police confirmed that Shikdar was critically injured and rushed to Khulna Medical College Hospital before being transferred for advanced medical scans. Party leaders stated that he was actively involved in preparations for a major divisional labour rally scheduled in the coming days. The incident has intensified fears that political violence is spreading beyond Dhaka.

Political Uncertainty Ahead Of Elections

These incidents have deepened political uncertainty across Bangladesh. Opposition groups have accused the interim government of failing to control violence and protect political activists. At the same time, international observers have expressed concern over reports of attacks on minorities and shrinking civic space.

The Yunus-led interim administration now faces pressure from multiple directions. On one hand, it must ensure justice and restore law and order. On the other, it is expected to prepare the country for elections that are credible, peaceful, and widely accepted. The fast-track trial in the Hadi killing is therefore being closely watched as a test of the government’s commitment to accountability and stability.

A Test Of Governance And Trust

As protests continue and political leaders warn of further unrest, the coming weeks will be crucial. Whether the fast-track trial delivers timely and transparent justice may determine not only the future course of the elections but also public confidence in the interim government. For many citizens, the outcome will signal whether Bangladesh can move toward a calmer, more democratic phase or remain trapped in a cycle of political violence and uncertainty.