Mirza Abbas questions media's silence on alleged political-business deals

BNP senior leader Mirza Abbas yesterday (14 March) raised questions about why the media are not reporting on allegations of financial transactions between some specific political parties and business groups.

"Some political parties still have connections with certain businessmen... sometimes we hear about [donations of] amounts like Tk15-16 crore, sometimes Tk100 crore [to different parties]. Why don't you write about this?" he said while speaking at an iftar party organised by the Dhaka Reporters' Unity (DRU) on its premises.

He urged journalists to understand the gravity of their responsibility in highlighting societal anomalies and wrongdoings.

"Your pen is far more powerful than a sword. What you write or say can greatly benefit the nation, but it can also cause harm if misused," the BNP leader observed.

Mirza Abbas called upon the media to uphold professionalism and integrity, ensuring that the truth is presented to the public.

At the same event, Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Shafiqur Rahman condemned the recent tragic incident of a minor girl's rape and death in Magura.

He expressed his deep sorrow over the little girl's death and prayed for the victim's soul and peace for her family.

The Jamaat chief urged the nation to unite against such heinous crimes and demand justice.

"The people of the country have been deeply hurt by this incident. May Allah grant us the ability to learn from this tragedy, stand against such crimes in the future, and demand justice," he said.

Shafiqur expressed the hope that the media would play an essential role in exposing these issues and ensuring accountability.