Story perspectives

Mob Violence Erupts After Pro-Democracy Leader's Assassination

12/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

On December 18, 2025, a mob attacked the Daily Star and Prothom Alo in Bangladesh after the assassination of pro-democracy leader Sharif Osman Hadi.
Journalists, including Zyma Islam, reported feeling vulnerable as tensions rose since the interim government rose to power.
Despite hopes after Sheikh Hasina's ouster, mob violence has caused 184 deaths this year, with reporters criticizing government inaction.

History

Historical Context

The assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15, 1975, marked a turning point for Bangladesh, plunging the nation into political chaos. Following his death, a series of coups and counter-coups ensued, with Ziaur Rahman eventually seizing power. Today, ongoing violence against journalists, exemplified by the recent mob attack on the Daily Star and Prothom Alo, highlights the enduring struggle for democracy, with 184 deaths reported this year.

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Story summary

On December 18, 2025, a mob attacked the Daily Star and Prothom Alo in Bangladesh after the assassination of pro-democracy leader Sharif Osman Hadi.
Journalists, including Zyma Islam, reported feeling vulnerable as tensions rose since the interim government rose to power.
Despite hopes after Sheikh Hasina's ouster, mob violence has caused 184 deaths this year, with reporters criticizing government inaction.

1 / 2