Dhaka, Dec 21 (V7N) – Voice7 News has named its Head of News, senior journalist Sayed Mostak Ahmed, as the head of its newly established United States bureau. The appointment was confirmed during an emergency board meeting held on Friday, December 20. Ahmed will formally begin his extended role on January 1, 2025, while continuing his duties as Head of News.

The announcement came in a joint statement signed by Voice7 News Chairman Mohammad Jahangir Alam and Editor-in-Chief Mostafa Kamal Majumder. Due to time zone differences between Bangladesh and the U.S., Ahmed will manage international and digital news operations remotely. His previous entitlements and responsibilities will remain unchanged.

Ahmed, a veteran journalist, relocated to the U.S. earlier this year after surviving a violent assault on September 2, 2024, near the BNP’s central office in Dhaka. He sustained serious injuries to his head, eyes, and hands in an attack allegedly carried out by members of a BNP-linked group, who labeled him an “anti-BNP journalist.” Intervention by senior party leaders reportedly prevented further harm.

In the days following the attack, Ahmed reportedly received multiple anonymous death threats. Fearing for his and his family’s safety, he fled Bangladesh and initially sought refuge in Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia. After a brief return to his native village in Brahmanbaria to remain in hiding, he traveled to the United States on September 18, 2024, upon an invitation to attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. He has since remained there in self-imposed exile.

Ahmed’s journalistic work has been recognized nationally and internationally for its integrity and fearlessness. He recently signed a Memorandum of Engagement (MoE) with the International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG), a UN-affiliated organization headquartered in Seoul, South Korea.

His case underscores the growing risks faced by journalists in Bangladesh, particularly those covering politically sensitive issues. It also reinforces calls for stronger protections and safer environments for media professionals worldwide.

Voice7 News has reiterated its support for journalists working under pressure. “We stand firmly with Mostak Ahmed and all media professionals who pursue truth and accountability, even at personal risk,” the statement said.

END/AJ/RH