Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) observed the International Anti-Corruption Day with a series of initiatives at national and local levels on Saturday.
Themed 'Uniting the World against Corruption,' the event featured the announcement of the national-level Anti-Corruption Investigative Journalism Awards along with Anti-Corruption Cartoon Competition and Anti-Corruption Cartoon Exhibition.
Besides, members from the Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC), Active Citizens Group (ACG), and Youth Engagement and Support (YES) Group participated in human chains, organized by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in 45 CCC regions, including Dhaka. The day also saw various programmes, such as rallies, discussions and cultural events, held nationwide to raise awareness regarding the fight against corruption.
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As part of the national programme, a discussion on 'Media, Freedom of Speech, and Investigative Journalism: Bangladesh Context' took place at TIB's Dhanmondi office today. Zafar Sadiq, Assistant Coordinator of TIB Outreach and Communication Department, presented a keynote during the event.
The discussion featured the participation of Reaz Ahmed, Executive Editor of Dhaka Tribune; Julfikar Ali Manik, Planning Consultant at Baishakhi Television; Shahnaz Munni, Chief News Editor at News24; Md. Badruddoza Babu, investigative journalist and trainer; and Ashish Saikat, Chief News Editor at Independent Television.
TIB Executive Director (ED) Dr. Iftekharuzzaman presided over the programme, while its Board of Trustees Chairperson Advocate Sultana Kamal graced the event with her presence.
In the event, the participants stated that a culture of fear has been created, denying the right of expression for journalists, human rights activists, and civil society members, posing an obstacle to ensuring democracy. The enactment of various restrictive laws, such as the Digital Security Act and the Cyber Security Act, have led to practicing ‘self-censorship’, and journalists have faced threats and even fatal incidents.
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The TIB chief, highlighting the prevailing "shoot the messenger" mindset among the powerful quarters in Bangladesh, stated, “Critics are silenced following the stance that they are adversaries. Consequently, the culture of fear is deepening.”
Advocate Sultana Kamal remarked, “Previously, if a news was unfavorable to a political party or leader, journalists faced pressure. However, at present, when the news is unfavorable to traders, bureaucrats, or any other group, instances of journalists being killed take place. Journalists also face increased pressure, especially when exposing corruption.”
Following the discussion, the TIB Anti-Corruption Investigative Journalism Awards 2023 were announced. This year, three journalists and a documentary programme received awards in different categories.
On the same day, the 18th Anti-Corruption Cartoon Competition awards giving ceremony took place, accompanied by inauguration of the Anti-Corruption Cartoon Exhibition for two weeks (9-23 December) at TIB’s Dhanmondi Office along with a virtual cartoon gallery. Swedish Ambassador Alexandra Berg Von Linde, Swiss Embassy Chargé d' Affaires Corinne Henchoz Pignani, British High Commission Deputy High Commissioner Matt Cannell, and USAID Mission Director Reed Aeschliman were present as the guests of honour.