A year ago, when the print edition of TIMES began its journey, Bangladesh was passing through one of the most consequential transitions in its recent history.
The fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024, following a mass uprising, ended a prolonged authoritarian rule and opened an opportunity for democratic renewal, greater freedom of expression and a freer press.
For journalists, it was an opportunity to start afresh, breaking away from partisan, compromised and often servile journalism that had severely damaged the credibility of the profession. Sadly, that opportunity has not been realised.
There has been a deep ethical erosion within Bangladesh’s media. For years, sections of the media establishment had surrendered their independence to political and economic interests.
Many owners, editors and journalists openly aligned themselves with the Awami League regime and served as its cheerleaders, abandoning the fundamental responsibility of journalism: to hold power to account.
The fall of the government, however, resulted in another shocking spectacle. Some of the very voices that had defended and praised the regime suddenly became its staunchest critics. The transformation exposed a worrisome opportunism that allegiance followed power rather than principle.
The post-Hasina period has brought an unprecedented shake-up in the media industry. In many news organisations, one group of journalists has replaced another in positions of editorial authority. The majority of those who assumed control have direct or indirect ties with the ruling and opposition parties, effectively replacing one form of partisan journalism with another.
This left Bangladesh with a serious vacuum of journalism that is genuinely independent, fearless and accountable. A few media organisations are trying to fill the void, but the gap remains substantial. And citizens’ expectation for journalism to rise above political, commercial and personal interests has remained unfulfilled.
TIMES set out to occupy the space.
Since launching our print edition on 1 September 2025, we have tried to uphold one simple principle: journalism without compromise. We have published stories, cartoons and analysis that powerful people and influential quarters did not always welcome. But our journalism has been factual and supported by evidence, and we have stood by it.
There have been occasions when requests and objections came our way. We listened, as responsible journalists should, but we did not change our position merely because a powerful person or interest was uncomfortable with what we published.
Our editorial policy is straightforward: we do not drop or delete a published story. However, we are committed to accountability. If anyone can prove that a published report is factually wrong, we will correct it and, where necessary, withdraw it with an apology.
Over the past year, we developed distinctive ways of presenting content with innovative layouts, visual storytelling and engaging way. The response has been encouraging, with our work drawing attention from readers across different sections of society and from fellow journalists as well.
Our experience has reinforced a simple belief: that when a news organisation puts journalism before every other interest, people notice and trust follows. In a country where political, commercial and institutional pressures can make independent journalism extremely difficult, earning that trust is not easy.
I am deeply indebted to my fellow journalists and colleagues at TIMES who have worked with commitment, courage and integrity to make this journey possible.
As TIMES steps forward, our ambition is not merely to grow as a newspaper, but to raise the standard of journalism — to investigate more deeply, question more fearlessly, present news more creatively, and remain uncompromising in our commitment to facts and public interest.
I would also like to extend my gratitude to our readers, well-wishers, patrons and advertisers for their belief in us and continued support throughout the year.
