Amnesty Demands Immediate Release of Journalist Anis Alamgir

UK-based international human rights organization Amnesty International has called for the immediate release of senior journalist Anis Alamgir, who was arrested under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The organization said that using anti-terrorism laws to target individuals for exercising freedom of expression is part of a worrying trend. The claim was made in a statement published on the organization’s website on Wednesday (17 December).

Amnesty International official Rehab Mahamur said that the manner in which Anis Alamgir was arrested on allegations of supporting the activities of the banned Awami League poses a serious threat to freedom of expression and freedom of association.

Rehab Mahamur stated that instead of misusing the Anti-Terrorism Act to silence people’s opinions, the interim government should ensure an environment conducive to freedom of expression ahead of the elections. She said that Bangladesh must fulfill its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and immediately release Anis Alamgir.

Referring to media reports, the statement said that Anis Alamgir introduced himself in court as a journalist and stated that he has been questioning those in power for two decades. His work is not about bowing his head to anyone. A case was filed against Anis Alamgir and four others on allegations of promoting the Awami League on social media and other platforms. He was arrested based on those allegations. A Dhaka metropolitan magistrate court placed him on a five-day remand.

The statement said that in May this year, the interim government amended the Anti-Terrorism Act and banned the activities of the Awami League. Since the amendment, the law has been used to take action against individuals identified as supporters of the Awami League. Journalist Manzurul Alam Panna is also on this list. Under international law, the use of anti-terrorism legislation to suppress freedom of expression and association is considered a violation.

Bangladesh is scheduled to hold a national election in February 2026. According to Amnesty, regardless of political identity, it is essential for the interim government to take all necessary steps to protect human rights and ensure the freedoms required for a rights-respecting society.