Journalism in Bangladesh gripped by pervasive fear: Mahfuz Anam tells Al Jazeera

Journalism in Bangladesh is passing through a phase of “pervasive fear,” despite increased space for investigative reporting, said The Daily Star editor and publisher Mahfuz Anam in an interview with Al Jazeera’s The Listening Post aired on Sunday (February 1).

Anam said that while mainstream media today appear more independent and investigative than before, journalists face constant threats if they deviate even slightly from narratives imposed by powerful groups. “There is greater freedom of thought, but at the same time an all-encompassing fear. Even word choices require extreme caution,” he said.

Referring to the recent attack on The Daily Star building, Anam described it as a “planned assault” driven by political and financial motives, aimed at destroying Bangladesh’s tradition of liberal journalism that upholds democracy, pluralism and dissent. “If our reporting is wrong, it should be criticised. Attempting to burn down a newsroom is deeply unfortunate,” he said.

He recalled the night of the attack as one of “extreme terror,” saying staff trapped inside struggled to breathe and feared for their lives. “They were calling their parents, spouses and friends, saying this might be the last time,” he said.

Anam also criticised the politicisation of the media, saying years of partisan alignment by journalists had severely eroded public trust in newspapers and television channels.

He noted that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had filed 83 cases against him, while Prothom Alo editor Matiur Rahman faced murder charges, adding that government pressure had led to a 40–45 percent drop in advertising revenue.

Anam expressed hope that future governments would learn from these experiences and help ensure a freer, safer media environment in Bangladesh.