Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has declared a one-day state mourning on Saturday (20 December) following the death of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi.
He announced the state mourning in a national address on Thursday night.
Expressing deep sorrow and grief at the untimely death of Hadi, he said, “His demise is an irreparable loss to the country’s political and democratic sphere. I pray for the forgiveness of his soul and extend my deepest condolences to his grieving wife, family members, relatives, and colleagues.”
The chief adviser also stated that the government will take responsibility for the wife and only child of the martyred Osman Hadi.
Yunus said, “In mourning the untimely death of the martyr Sharif Osman Hadi, I am declaring a one-day state mourning for next Saturday.
“On this occasion, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on Saturday at all government, semi-government, autonomous institutions, educational institutions, as well as government and private buildings and Bangladesh missions abroad.”
He continued, “Simultaneously, special prayers for the forgiveness of the martyr Osman Hadi’s soul will be organised after Jummah prayers this Friday (19 December) at every mosque across the country.
“Special prayers will also be arranged at places of worship of other religions.”
The chief adviser said, “I express my special gratitude to the Singapore government. They have shown great sincerity and professionalism in Hadi’s treatment. Especially to Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, who is also a doctor himself.
“He personally oversaw Hadi’s care and kept me regularly updated about the treatment.”
Yunus added, “All criminals involved in this brutal murder will be brought under the law swiftly, and maximum punishment will be ensured against them. No leniency will be shown in this matter.
“This young leader, Osman Hadi, inspired by revolutionary blood, was an icon of protest. Through his work, he has left behind not just protest, but a unique example of patriotism, patience, and determination. I earnestly appeal to all citizens of the country – please maintain patience and restraint.”
“Law enforcement agencies and related organisations are conducting the investigation with professionalism. The state is fully committed to establishing the rule of law.”
Yunus further said, “I want to state clearly once again, Osman Hadi was an enemy of the defeated fascist terrorists. The attempt to intimidate revolutionaries by silencing his voice will be completely thwarted.
“No one can stop this country’s democratic march forward through fear, terror, or bloodshed.”
He said, “We have now reached the final stage of our democratic transition. Martyr Hadi was an integral part of this process. It was his earnest wish to contest in the upcoming election and play an active role in the next phase of building a new Bangladesh.
“It is extremely sad that this noble wish of his remains unfulfilled. The responsibility of realising his dream is now upon the shoulders of the entire nation. In the coming days, we all must move forward with patience, restraint, courage, and foresight, so that the enemies of elections and democracy – the fascist terrorist forces – can be ultimately defeated.”
The chief adviser then pointed out, “In this moment of mourning, let us transform the ideals and sacrifice of the martyr Sharif Osman Hadi into strength. Let us be patient, not lend ears to propaganda and rumours, and refrain from any rash decisions.”
Yunus concluded by saying, “Instead of falling into the traps of those who want to destabilise the country, let us all move forward with united and steadfast steps on the path of establishing democracy, justice, and the rights of the people.
“This will be our true tribute to the martyr Hadi.”
