The association says any repressive measures to silence media is a threat to independent journalismOCAB demands the withdrawal of accreditation cancellations for journalists, urging the government to ensure press freedomThe Overseas Correspondents Association Bangladesh, or OCAB, has criticised the cancellation of accreditation for 167 journalists, calling it a severe blow to independent journalism in the country. “Silencing the media undermines independent journalism and jeopardises the democratic aspirations of the people,” OCAB said, adding that such actions threaten press freedom and create a climate of fear. The association echoed global organisations such as the Committee to Protect Journalists, or CPJ, the Commonwealth Journalists Association, or CJA, the Reporters Without Borders, Dhaka-based Editors’ Council and other journalists’ unions, urging the government to cease all forms of harassment against journalists. The association reiterated its commitment to independent journalism, urging the interim administration to uphold freedom of expression as a cornerstone of sustainable democracy. OCAB has also demanded immediate withdrawal of the decision and return the accreditation to journalists, including its senior members.

Source: bd News24 November 18, 2024 18:31 UTC