Dhaka, Bangladesh, was the scene of significant unrest on Friday, December 19, 2025, as demonstrators forcefully entered the offices of the country's leading newspapers. The protest was a direct response to news arriving from Singapore about the death of prominent activist Sharif Osman Hadi.
Death of an Activist Sparks Immediate Outcry
The catalyst for the demonstration was the confirmed passing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a figure known for his involvement in political movements. News of his death, which originated from Singapore, spread rapidly through the Bangladeshi capital. This information triggered an immediate and visceral reaction from his supporters and other activists, who gathered to voice their anger and grief.
Newspaper Offices Become Target of Protest
The gathering quickly escalated into a direct action targeting media institutions. Protesters were documented shouting slogans outside the premises of Prothom Alo, one of Bangladesh's most widely circulated daily newspapers. The crowd did not remain outside, however. Reports and photographic evidence confirm that demonstrators proceeded to storm the offices of Prothom Alo and other leading dailies, reflecting a deep-seated frustration potentially aimed at media representation or coverage of activist movements.
A Context of Political Tension
While the immediate cause was Hadi's death, the storming of newspaper offices points to broader, ongoing tensions within Bangladesh's political landscape. The activist was reportedly involved in a 2024 uprising, suggesting his death is viewed by protesters through a lens of political continuity and unresolved conflict. The choice to target major media outlets underscores a complex relationship between activist groups, public narrative, and institutional power in the country.
The events of December 19 highlight how the death of a single influential figure can rapidly mobilize public sentiment and lead to confrontations with symbolic institutions. The situation in Dhaka remains a developing story, with the aftermath of the protests and the official response yet to be fully seen.
