Free Press

Afzal's Efforts to Reinstate Ahmed Jobair and Rumel at Somoy TV

In the history of Bangladesh, Somoy TV has been one of the most critical media outlets in reporting negative news about Dr. Muhammad Yunus. The mastermind behind these reports was none other than Afzal Hossain of Somoy TV. Merely mentioning Dr. Yunus' name would prompt him to fabricate stories, which were then sent to Sajeeb Wazed Joy for approval. Upon receiving the green light from Joy, these reports would be broadcasted. Furthermore, Afzal played a significant role in advising Ahmed Jobair to file a lawsuit against City Group and is now overseeing the progress of that case._x000D_ _x000D_ Afzal had an unofficial role as an assignment editor, running the office in Rumel's absence. However, in an attempt to save his job, he is now identifying himself as a former leader of the student wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)._x000D_ _x000D_ Despite the recent dismissal of Assignment Editor Khan Mohammad Rumel and News Editor Lopa, Afzal remains in his position, maintaining his influence within the organization. Although he is reputed as a skilled court reporter, Afzal was a key member of the Rumel-Lopa syndicate. He was involved in producing various reports for the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), crafting anti-BNP narratives, and fabricating stories against Tarique Rahman. Additionally, he played a significant role in advising on what kind of reports should be made against the opposition parties, including false reports against leading national dailies like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. Afzal has been one of the most privileged individuals in the newsroom._x000D_ _x000D_ A few years ago, Afzal sparked considerable controversy by propagating the false news of Khaleda Zia's death, based on a slip of the tongue by Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, who mistakenly said "death" instead of "release." The video clearly showed Rizvi's mistake, but Afzal sensationalized the story, causing widespread discussion at the time._x000D_ _x000D_ Despite being a court reporter, Afzal often took over major assignments to remain in the spotlight. He has also assured the recently dismissed Lopa and Rumel that he will work to reinstate them at Somoy TV._x000D_ _x000D_ Afzal is well-known as a trusted confidant of Ahmed Jobair, and both have taken a stand to ensure that City Group cannot succeed in their legal battles against Jobair.
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