TIB condemns shooting of Khulna journalists  

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Thursday strongly condemned the shooting targeting a group of journalists in Khulna, warning that the incident poses a serious threat to media freedom and freedom of expression in the country.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, TIB said the attack, carried out late Tuesday night after the journalists had completed their professional duties and were sitting together, underscores the urgent need for stronger protection of media professionals.

Its Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said although it remains unclear whether the attack specifically targeted an individual journalist or was linked to any particular news report, the armed assault itself constitutes an attack on media freedom. He called for an immediate, impartial and effective investigation without any undue influence or delay to identify not only the perpetrators but also those who planned and ordered the attack.

Dr Iftekharuzzaman warned that failure to conduct a credible investigation could allow the case to join the long list of attacks on journalists that have ended in impunity.

Referring to media reports that the victims were initially reluctant to file a case, he described the situation as deeply worrying, saying it reflects fear of further reprisals, insecurity and a lack of confidence in the authorities' ability or willingness to ensure justice. He said such fear and mistrust discourage independent, investigative and public-interest journalism while emboldening powerful vested interests to act with greater impunity.

TIB urged the authorities to take immediate and effective measures to ensure the safety of journalists, conduct credible investigations into every attack against media professionals and guarantee justice and exemplary accountability.