Gazipur Journalists Protest Death Threat to Colleague for Exposing Corruption

Protest and Human Chain Against Death Threat to Journalist in Gazipur

A protest and human chain were organized in front of the Gazipur District Commissioner's office in response to the death threat issued against Mohammad Mojahid, a journalist of Daily Naya Diganta, for publishing a report on corruption and irregularities in Gazipur.

On March 6, a report by Mojahid highlighted irregularities, harassment, and extortion in the voter list updating process at Shreepur Pilot High School in Gazipur district. The report exposed the involvement of college leaders in illegal activities, which led to a public death threat against the journalist immediately after publication.

In reaction to this alarming incident, journalists from Gazipur gathered on March 9, Sunday, at 12:30 PM, in front of the District Commissioner's office to condemn the threat and demand justice.

The protest was chaired by Dr. A. K. M. Ripon Ansari, President of Gazipur District Press Club, with journalist S. M. Zahirul Islam as the moderator.

Dr. Ripon Ansari stated, "The threat against journalists is an attempt to silence the media. We strongly condemn this shameful act and demand the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of the perpetrators. This is not only an attack on one journalist, but a challenge to the entire journalistic community in the country. We are ready to take a firm stand against such threats."

Shahan Shahabuddin, Chief Advisor of Gazipur Journalists' Association, said, “This is a clear signal that if the administration does not protect journalists, they aim to completely destroy the freedom of the press. We want to make it clear that journalists will not be intimidated and will stand against such threats. If the administration fails to act quickly and effectively, every member of the journalist community will unite to launch a stronger movement, which could prove extremely dangerous for this government. Journalists are the mirror of society. This threat is not only an attack on one journalist but a serious blow to the freedom of the press. If the administration fails to act swiftly, the journalistic community will be compelled to take stronger measures.”

The protest also featured speeches by prominent journalists such as Mazharul Islam Masum, reporter for ATN News, Amjad Khan, President of Gazipur City Press Club, Musa Khan from the Bangladesh Press Club, Mahmuda Sikkader from DBC News, Rubel Sarkar, and many other distinguished journalists.

The event reflected the unwavering resolve of the united journalist community, who raised their voices against such threats and demanded immediate action from the authorities.

Severe Condemnation of the Death Threat by Bangladesh Media Publishers and Editors Council

The Bangladesh Media Publishers and Editors Council, through its President Tuhin Sarwar and Acting General Secretary, issued a strong condemnation of the death threat. Tuhin Sarwar remarked, "This is not just an attack on one journalist, but an assault on the freedom of the press. We will not tolerate such threats against journalists."

He added, "If the administration does not take swift action, we will take our protest beyond the country's media and publicize it in global media outlets, leading to even more severe consequences.

No statement or assurance from any responsible official of the Gazipur administration has been received regarding this matter.