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February 26, 2026 – Bangladesh –
The Editors’ Council of Bangladesh has issued a strong call on the newly formed government to immediately withdraw what it described as false and harassing legal cases lodged against journalists since August 5, 2024, warning that such measures are seriously undermining press freedom and professional media work across the country. The appeal, signed by Council President Nurul Kabir and General Secretary Dewan Hanif Mahmud, was released on February 25, 2026, in a formal statement from the organisation.
In its communiqué, the Editors’ Council noted that numerous journalists have been targeted with fabricated charges, including alleged involvement in homicide and a range of other “harassing” allegations. According to the group, many media workers remain behind bars awaiting trial, while others are forced to make frequent court appearances, significantly disrupting their ability to report and weakening media independence. The Council said that false cases have been used in various regions of Bangladesh and stressed that such practices have a chilling effect on press freedom and democratic discourse.
The statement reiterated that legitimate grievances against journalists should be addressed through established legal channels with proper evidence and transparent judicial processes, but vindictive or baseless prosecutions are unacceptable. Press freedom, the Council argued, is a cornerstone of democratic governance, and harassment of journalists through lawfare jeopardises both the safety of media workers and the public’s right to unbiased information.
The Editors’ Council added that it has made multiple prior appeals to interim authorities to review and rescind these cases, with assurances given that reviews would take place. However, Council leaders said that little tangible progress has occurred, prompting the latest, more urgent public demand for action. They urged the new administration to treat the issue with “the highest importance” and take swift steps to dismantle legal pressure on journalists.
Bangladesh’s press has faced ongoing legal and extralegal pressures in recent years, with media workers at times subject to threats, arrests, and lawsuits tied to their reporting on political movements and sensitive national issues. Rights advocates argue that meaningful reform and protective measures are necessary to safeguard independent journalism and uphold Bangladesh’s democratic principles.
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