Dhaka Reporters Unity stood as space for dissent during fascist rule: Rizvi

BNP Acting Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today (10 September) said the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) served as a space for expressing dissent during the “fascist” rule, when avenues for opposing views had been severely restricted.

He made the remarks at a programme marking the DRU’s 31st founding anniversary. “Dhaka Reporters Unity is a place of refuge for us. Before, our spaces had been shrinking under fascist attacks, and there was no room for dissenting views. The Reporters Unity was that space,” Rizvi said.

Recalling his arrest during the July uprising, Rizvi said he was detained from inside the National Press Club on 19 July. “The fascists had taken control of the Press Club. We have gone through a very dark period,” he said.

Referring to the ousted Awami League, Rizvi said, “A party that came to power through violence had it in its DNA. We saw a new version of Bakshal then, only one party would be allowed to speak,” he said. “The media were under their control, and social media were also under their control.”

The DRU organised a daylong programme to mark its 31st founding anniversary. The celebrations began in the morning with the hoisting of the national and DRU flags, followed by the formal inauguration with balloons and doves being released and a colourful rally.

A cake-cutting ceremony, exchange of greetings and lunch were held at noon. A cultural programme featuring noted artists was scheduled for the afternoon.

Leaders of different political parties, journalists, professionals, media personalities and representatives from various walks of life attended the programme.