On May 12, the activities of the Awami League were declared banned. Earlier, on May 11, the publication of the “Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance 2025” in the government gazette drew widespread attention. Under the ordinance, a clause was added to Section 20A(1) Subsection (6) of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009 (Act No. 16 of 2009), which states:
“No press statement or written material in support of or in favor of any banned terrorist group shall be published or printed in any print media, mass media, online platform, social media, or by any other means. Any kind of expression, direct or indirect, communication or publication supporting such an entity shall be deemed as providing assistance to terrorism.”
The newly added provision of the ordinance poses a serious threat to the people’s right to free expression and the constitutional guarantee of press freedom. Such vague and broad language may be used to suppress dissent and restrict independent journalism. While tackling terrorism is an important responsibility of the state, any legal framework must ensure protection of civil liberties. The Editors’ Council believes the new ordinance contradicts the principles of press freedom and transparency.
We demand an immediate withdrawal or revision of this ordinance.
On behalf of the Editors’ Council,
Mahfuz Anam
President
Dewan Hanif Mahmud
General Secretary
