16/07/2025
PRESS STATEMENT
Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media-BJIM expresses deep concern over the suspension of a reporter by Daily Jugantor, reportedly in connection with a recent news report.
Reporter Abdullah Al Mamun had covered a brutal, broad-daylight murder in Dhaka, in which allegations were raised against a political leader. The report clearly stated that the allegations came from the locals and included the leader’s direct denial, as quoted. Additionally, it noted that the political party’s headquarters issued a press release announcing the expulsion of several activists allegedly linked to the incident.
BJIM stresses that sensitive reports such as this undergo multiple layers of editorial scrutiny, including by subeditors and senior editors. Therefore, the unilateral suspension of the reporter raises serious concerns about due process and fairness.
BJIM is highly skeptical of this decision by the Daily. If there were any factual inaccuracies, a rejoinder or correction should have been published. Targeting the reporter appears to be an attempt to scapegoat him — a move that undermines press freedom and violates basic principles of ethical journalism.
We strongly condemn this action and urge Jugantor authorities to conduct an internal review at the editorial level, and, if the report holds editorial integrity, to reinstate Abdullah Al Mamun with full dignity and issue a public apology.
BJIM also urges all political parties to refrain from spreading intimidation among the news outlets, a regular practice by a previous regime, while many of them are already self-censoring a lot of important news items, weathering an uncertain political future.��
