Press Club condemns attack on media offices

The National Press Club has “strongly condemned” the overnight attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star on Friday.

Press Club President Hasan Hafiz and General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan protests the incident, branding it as an attack on free speech and an affront to the spirit of July Uprising, according to a statement released by the organisation.

They have also expressed grave concern over the harassment of Editors’ Council President Nurul Kabir, who is also the editor of New Age, the statement read

The Press Club leaders said the primary objectives of the “July Revolution” were to eliminate discrimination, establish the people’s right to vote, and restore freedom of opinion and expression in the country. However, the attack on the media has undermined that very spirit. An independent media is essential to strengthening democracy. Therefore, ensuring that journalists can work freely is a moral responsibility of all – regardless of party affiliation, caste and creed – in the interest of democracy.

The leaders expressed hope that all concerned would come forward to uphold this responsibility.