Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has strongly condemned the ‘planned smear campaign’ against journalist and writer Ehsan Mahmud on social media. In a statement issued today, Fakhrul alleged that a group is deliberately spreading falsehoods about Mahmud, who was dismissed from his job in July 2023 under pressure from the government while carrying out his professional duties.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul highlighted Mahmud’s longstanding involvement in pro-democracy activism, noting his presence in demonstrations and political discussions prior to and during the July-August anti-dictatorship movement. Mahmud’s active participation in these movements has been a point of contention, with Fakhrul emphasizing his role not only on the streets but also through his writings.
“Ehsan Mahmud was not only active on the streets but also in his writings, playing a vocal role against authoritarianism. I strongly protest and denounce the disinformation campaign being waged against him,” Fakhrul stated, as he expressed his concerns over the integrity of media freedom and the targeting of journalists who challenge authority.