Editor’s Council concerned over a clause of anti-terror ordinance

The Editors' Council has expressed concern over a newly added clause to the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, saying that it may significantly limit freedom of the press.

A gazette on the ordinance was issued by the interim government on May 11, and the ban on the Awami League's activities followed on May 12.

According to the gazette, a new clause has been introduced under subsection 1 of clause (kha) of section 20 of the 2009 Act.

The clause reads, "Any publication or printing of a press statement by the said entity or in support of it, or any kind of campaign through media, online, social media or any other means, or organisation of rallies, meetings, press conferences or public speeches shall be prohibited."

In a statement issued yesterday on behalf of the Editors' Council, its President Mahfuz Anam and General Secretary Dewan Hanif Mahmud said the application of such a clause could confine the space for public expression and press freedom in the country.

"The addition of a provision that creates scope for potential misuse is not expected from the interim government," the statement read.

The council demanded that the clause be suspended and reconsidered.