BNP Govt Warns Media Against Broadcasting Sheikh Hasina's Statements

DHAKA: Tarique Rahman-led BNP govt on Tuesday warned of action against Bangladeshi media outlets if they broadcast Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina’s statements. The caution from prime ministerial adviser for information and broadcast Zahed Ur Rahman came in the backdrop of a section of Bangladeshi media covering Hasina’s recent interview to an Indian news channel, in which she asserted she will return “this year”. He also told a press conference that there is no scope for the banned Awami League to carry out political activities whether it is by itself or under the name of another outfit, such as “refined or new Awami League, or Trinamool Awami League”. It is also inappropriate to broadcast her statements until court lifts the ban on her speeches, Zahed said, adding that despite this “many media outlets are still broadcasting them, and this means they are defying court orders”. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s main opposition party JeI and its ally NCP have announced separate month-long programmes from July 2 and July 1, respectively, to mark the second anniversary of the ‘uprising’ as well as press their demands including expediting trials of those responsible for killings during the ‘uprising’.