In a harrowing turn of events on Thursday, staff at two major Bangladeshi newspapers, The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, found themselves “gasping for air” as their offices were engulfed in flames by protesters angered over the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. The incident highlights the escalating violence in Bangladesh following a key political figure’s tragic shooting.
Violence and Destruction
Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent figure in the youth-led anti-government protests that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was tragically shot and succumbed to his injuries on December 19, 2025. In response to his death, protesters stormed the offices of the two newspapers, known for their secular and progressive stance, and set them ablaze, causing severe damage. Staff members were trapped inside, with some being rescued after hours of being exposed to smoke and fumes.
Impact on Independent Journalism
This attack represents one of the darkest days for independent journalism in Bangladesh, as The Daily Star was unable to publish its print edition for the first time in 35 years. Consulting editor Kamal Ahmed described the situation as dire, with 28 colleagues trapped on the rooftop, struggling for air. The violence serves as a stark reminder of the risks journalists face in politically volatile environments.
Protest and Political Context
Hadi’s death comes amid protests against the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The unrest is largely linked to the planned elections set for February 2026. Hadi, who had planned to contest as an independent candidate, was an outspoken critic of the interim government’s policies, which may have fueled the violent reactions against these media outlets.
Government Response and Ongoing Investigation
The interim government has condemned the attacks, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. In response to the violence, a national day of mourning has been declared. Investigations are underway, with several individuals detained in connection with the shooting.
The tragic events in Bangladesh underscore the dangerous intersection of politics and journalism. As the country heads toward elections, the violence against media institutions raises serious concerns about the future of free expression and the safety of journalists.
