Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman today alleged that some “well‑known journalists” were involved in instigating the December 18 attacks on the offices of The Daily Star and Prothom Alo.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the Bangladesh Investigative Journalism Conference 2026, organised by MRDI at the Radisson Blu Water Garden hotel, he said, “Enemies within the media, alongside external forces, also worked behind these attacks. There is documentary evidence that some well‑known media personnel were among the instigators, and certain quarters expressed glee over the incidents.”

He criticised the interim government’s silence and the indifference of law enforcement and the army during the attacks, adding that journalism remains one of the most hazardous professions globally, with 500 journalists killed worldwide and 26 in Bangladesh over the past decade.

MRDI Executive Director Hasibur Rahman highlighted the strength of investigative journalism in Bangladesh, noting that 188 pitches were received against only 60 fellowship slots.

"But the question is, why aren't we seeing a large number of investigative reports in newspapers and on television?" he asked.

He stressed the need for newsroom self‑regulation to ensure objective and “bulletproof” reporting, announcing that MRDI will hold the national conference biennially from now on.

The event was attended by Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks, Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) Executive Director Emilia Díaz‑Struck (virtually), and representatives from international partner organisations, including the Embassy of Sweden. Around 550 journalists from across the country are participating in the two‑day conference.