The interim government has announced that it will formally approach the United Nations this coming Sunday, to request an international investigation into the killing of Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi.
This decision comes as the administration concludes a deep review of the legal frameworks required to conduct an inquiry under UN auspices.
In a statement issued on Friday, the government reaffirmed its firm commitment to ensuring justice for the murder, noting that a formal letter will be dispatched to the relevant UN agency to initiate the process.
The move follows two days of demonstrations held under the banner of Inqilab Mancha. Protesters had gathered in front of the State Guest House Yamuna since the evening of 5 February to demand a trial for the killing.
While the government has now moved to meet the demand for an international probe, it maintained that the security measures taken to disperse the crowds were necessary to protect the high-security zone where rallies are prohibited.
On Friday, the situation near Yamuna escalated when protesters reportedly breached barricades and climbed onto water cannons. In response, law enforcement utilised sound grenades and water cannons to bring the area under control.
The government and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have categorically denied allegations of excessive force, stating that no firearms or lethal weapons were used during the operation.
Medical records from the Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) support the government’s position; while 23 people, including Inqilab Mancha Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber, received treatment for various injuries, duty doctors confirmed that none of the injured sustained bullet wounds.
As the nation approaches its upcoming general elections, which the government has described as a “historic milestone” for Bangladesh’s 180 million citizens, officials have urged for calm and responsibility.
With numerous international observers and foreign journalists already present in the country, the government stressed that maintaining stability is vital for a peaceful, fair, and participatory election.
The statement concluded by noting that the electoral opportunity was earned through long struggle and sacrifice, and any deviation from a disciplined democratic process would be unacceptable for the nation’s future development.
