CJA urges Bangladesh to drop 'politically motivated' charges against journalists

Commonwealth Journalists Association demands the immediate release of four senior Bangladeshi journalists held for 600 days

The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) has urged the Bangladesh government to honour its election pledge to withdraw politically motivated cases against journalists, calling for an immediate review of cases against four detained senior journalists.

In a statement on Jun 28, the international media organisation expressed deep concern over the continued detention of its Vice-President Shyamal Dutta, editor of Bhorer Kagoj, as well as Ekattor TV journalists Mozammel Haq Babu, Farzana Rupa and Shakil Ahmed.

The association said Shyamal is scheduled to appear before Bangladesh's High Court on Tuesday.

He faces multiple murder charges, which the CJA said it believes are "in retaliation for his journalism".

"We urge the Government of Bangladesh to honour its stated commitment to media freedom and its election pledge to withdraw politically motivated cases against journalists," the statement said.

It called for "the immediate review of the cases against these journalists, the withdrawal of charges where no credible evidence exists, and their prompt release".

According to the CJA, the four journalists have been detained for more than 18 months on murder-related allegations.

It noted that despite the passage of nearly 600 days, no chargesheets have reportedly been filed and no credible evidence has been publicly presented to substantiate the accusations.

"Such prolonged detention without due process raises serious concerns about the rule of law, press freedom, and the protection of fundamental rights," the association said.

The CJA also said it was particularly troubled by reports suggesting the arrests appeared to have been influenced by perceived political affiliations rather than demonstrable criminal conduct.

"Journalism must never be criminalised on the basis of political perceptions or professional associations," the statement said.

The association also highlighted humanitarian concerns over the journalists' continued detention.

It cited reports that Shyamal suffers from documented cardiac and severe sleep apnoea conditions requiring proper medical assessment and treatment.

It also said Mozammel, who underwent major surgery for prostate cancer in late 2023, has reportedly been denied essential follow-up care.

The CJA further expressed concern over reports that Rupa was placed in a condemnation cell reserved for death-row inmates for two weeks, saying it raised serious questions regarding her treatment and welfare while in custody.

Reiterating its position, the organisation said, "All journalists, irrespective of their editorial positions or perceived political leanings, are entitled to due process, humane treatment, and the full protection of the law."

It urged the authorities to ensure "that justice is administered fairly, transparently, and without delay".