Bangladesh: 'Utter failure' to protect bloggers condemned after second killing

“How many more bloggers will have to be attacked before action is taken?" - Abbas Faiz

Amnesty International has condemned the Bangladeshi authorities’ “utter failure” to protect bloggers in the country after a second blogger in the space of a month was hacked to death.

Washiqur Rahman was killed near his home in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka this morning with police confirming that the blogger was attacked for his alleged “anti-Islamic” views. Two men were arrested near the scene.

His murder comes a month after US-based writer and atheist blogger Avijit Roy, who had previously received threats for his atheist views, was killed with a machete while visiting the Bangladeshi capital. The police have arrested one suspect in that case.

Abbas Faiz, Bangladesh Researcher at Amnesty International, said:
 

“The killing of Washiqur Rahman today is another clear example of the Bangladeshi government’s utter failure to ensure the safety of those at risk.

“The despicable murder of Avijit Roy last month should have led authorities to step-up protection measures for bloggers and others at risk.

“How many more bloggers will have to be attacked before action is taken?

“Authorities must immediately and thoroughly investigate both killings, ensure those suspected of committing the crimes are brought to justice and ensure meaningful protection for journalists and bloggers at risk of attack.”