Well-known journalists involved in instigating attacks on media offices: TIB

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has leveled serious accusations, alleging that prominent journalists were involved in instigating the attacks on The Daily Star and Prothom Alo offices on December 18th. Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman stated at the Bangladesh Investigative Journalism Conference that "enemies within the media, alongside external forces, also worked behind these attacks." He further claimed "documentary evidence" exists implicating "well-known media personnel" and that "certain quarters expressed glee over the incidents." This perspective from TIB casts a dark shadow over the media landscape, suggesting internal complicity in attacks that should have been met with swift condemnation and action. The criticism extends to the interim government and law enforcement agencies for their perceived "silence and indifference." The conference, organized by MRDI, also served as a platform to discuss the perilous state of journalism, with Hasibur Rahman noting that 500 journalists have been killed worldwide and 26 in Bangladesh over the past decade. Despite these grim realities, the event underscored the resilience and importance of investigative journalism in Bangladesh, evidenced by the high number of pitches received for fellowship slots. However, the question remains: why aren't more investigative reports reaching the public? MRDI's commitment to holding this conference biennially signals a dedication to fostering and strengthening this crucial form of journalism, even amidst significant challenges and alleged internal threats.

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Enemies within the media, alongside external forces, also worked behind these attacks. There is documentary evidence that some well-known media personnel were among the instigators, and certain quarters expressed glee over the incidents.