Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Political Unrest Erupts After Shooting of Uprising Leader

12/22/2025

36 4

Summary

Story summary

On December 22, 2025, Motaleb Shikder, a leader of Bangladesh’s 2004 student uprising, was shot in Khulna city.
The shooting followed Sharif Osman Hadi's December 12 attack on a candidate in the February 12 elections.
Hadi died in Singapore on December 18, prompting unrest.
Police are searching for Faisal Karim Masud, the prime suspect in Hadi's murder, with no leads.
Authorities say the murder may be politically motivated amid protests.

1 of 1

Story summary

On December 22, 2025, Motaleb Shikder, a leader of Bangladesh’s 2004 student uprising, was shot in Khulna city.
The shooting followed Sharif Osman Hadi's December 12 attack on a candidate in the February 12 elections.
Hadi died in Singapore on December 18, prompting unrest.
Police are searching for Faisal Karim Masud, the prime suspect in Hadi's murder, with no leads.
Authorities say the murder may be politically motivated amid protests.