Investigative Technology Journalism: A Beacon in the Dark

Investigative technology journalism is not just a profession, but it is a beacon of hope in a complex political landscape, a tool for holding power accountable, and a fundamental right of citizens to understand the intricate realities of their society. It is also a crucial tool in combating governmental corruption, including practices like bribery, embezzlement, and extortion. Its role involves uncovering and reporting corrupt practices within a government regime. A survey indicated that business people view it as a highly effective method for fighting corruption. This form of journalism helps hold officials accountable and promotes transparency, which can, in turn, reduce impunity and foster a more ethical environment. The media's role in investigative journalism is critical in safeguarding against corruption.

Today, we will introduce one such ICT journalist. From 2002 he was only a technology and telecom journalist with clear knowledge of cutting edge technology when Bangladesh was about to start its digital transformation of public infrastructure and citizen services. Being a computer science graduate Md.Mojahidul islam known also “Dheow”. He has been in ICT journalism for over 20 years and is recognized for his work as an investigative technology journalist. His reports have influenced authorities to reconsider decisions, exposed corruption, and revealed the true faces of the powerful. He is a rare tech journalist who could speak fluent geek and bureaucrat at the same time.

His journalistic journey began in 1999. At The New Nation, English daily, he joined as a part time associate editor when it started publishing a dedicated tech page. In 2002, under his editorial guidance, the Bengali daily Ajker Kagoj launched the first-ever weekly Bangla tech page titled Online. In 2003, he joined E-Biz as Assistant Editor. Rising through the ranks as Executive Editor and Managing Editor, he eventually became the Acting Editor of the publication.

In 2006, he joined The Daily Ittefaq, the oldest and one of the most prestigious newspapers in Bangladesh, to lead its tech page. There, he also took charge of the Technology, Daily IT Corner, Jobs, Education, and Corporate sections. By 2009, he was promoted to Technology Editor of Ittefaq. In late 2024, after nearly two decades, he left Ittefaq to become the Online Editor of the country’s third-largest English daily—an institution with 45 years of history.

Mojahidul Islam is also a celebrated author of Bangla books on technology. Over a dozen of his books have gained recognition both at home and abroad. His works enjoy equal popularity in the Indian state of West Bengal.

To sharpen his edge in journalism, Mojahidul has traversed the globe—receiving international-standard training in various corners of the world. He was awarded a fellowship in finance and business journalism from the Thomson Reuters Foundation in London, and also received specialized training in Internet Resource Management and Artificial Intelligence.

Back in 2007, Mojahidul stepped into a new role—as General Secretary of the Bangladesh ICT Journalists Forum (BIJF), the country’s only organization for tech journalists. From writing powerful pieces to hosting seminars and roundtables, he took several initiatives for the advancement of Bangladesh’s ICT sector. Later, in 2019, he was elected President of BIJF, becoming a vocal advocate for the rights of IT journalists.

Md. Mojahidul Islam is not just a journalist—he’s a firebrand for press freedom. From protests to statements, from rallies to human chains—he has always been at the frontline, speaking out against violence and injustice toward journalists. Whether it’s wrongful arrests, fake murder cases, freezing of bank accounts, or even the forced shutdown of media outlets and mass journalist layoffs—he doesn’t stay silent.

Md Mojahidul urged journalists to persevere, stating, “There will be risks, but we must keep asking the tough questions.” Breaking the "cycle of fear" demands political environments that genuinely tolerate critical reporting. This means creating mechanisms that reduce direct interference, establishing independent oversight, and fostering a culture that sees journalism as a vital public service rather than a potential threat.

What are the common challenges faced by investigative journalists?

Investigative journalists often face a myriad of challenges that test both their resolve and resilience. Among the most pressing are legal threats and censorship, where laws such as those on defamation, sedition, or cyber security are wielded as tools to intimidate or even imprison those who dare to speak truth to power. Physical threats and violence are also common—many journalists endure harassment, threats, or assaults, particularly when exposing corruption or criminal networks. Economic constraints add another layer of difficulty, as limited funding and resources can severely hinder the depth and reach of their investigations. Moreover, access to crucial documents, sources, or locations is frequently restricted by authorities, obstructing transparency. Media ownership and political bias further complicate matters, with editorial decisions often swayed by vested interests that suppress sensitive or inconvenient stories. In the digital realm, journalists face escalating risks from cyberattacks, hacking, and surveillance—threats that especially target those who publish online.

Md. Mojahidul Islam has spoken out about these systemic pressures, which frequently force journalists to compromise their investigative integrity. His words carried a call for a deep, cultural transformation within media organizations—one that values truth over trends. He expressed concern about a disturbing shift toward journalism driven by social media algorithms rather than substance. The absence of proper editorial gatekeeping, he noted, has only intensified this problem, eroding the very foundation of investigative reporting.

Offering another perspective, Islam highlighted the technological and professional barriers that investigative journalists must overcome. Drawing from his own extensive experience, he emphasized the urgent need for better resources, support systems, and collaborative platforms to strengthen the field. “Some investigative reports never make it to publication despite months of effort,” he shared, revealing the hidden struggles of journalists who dedicate immense time and energy to uncover stories that the world desperately needs to hear. He stressed that “to combat disinformation, we must tackle these challenges with the right information—with data and analysis.”

How does investigative journalism impact public trust?

Investigative journalism can significantly impact public trust in both positive and negative ways. When it uncovers corruption or misconduct, it bolsters trust by demonstrating that media outlets are vigilant watch dogs, promoting transparency and holding power accountable. This transparency reassures the public that their interests are being protected and that abuses are being exposed.

In 2014 I have report on JICA’s funding slipped away, the Tk 2 billion project was lost, service was trimmed, and project was taken up at government expense, a bidder was selected in a matter of six months, the tender was cancelled at the last moment, official took a trip to India and, with unbelievable speed, the deal was clinched, in a matter of just four working days.Earlier in 2015, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) withdrew from financing the optical fibre transmission network citing corruption at high official places and repeated sabotage of the tender process apparently to give the contract to certain favored bidder sidetracking the lowest bidder.

In April 2021 an investigative report publish by me about on allegations of graft in a project of state-run Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Ltd. project titled "Switching and Transmission Network Development for Strengthening Digital Connectivity”. After my report The Anti-Corruption Commission has initiated an investigate this retender the project. I have report so many on Bangladesh’s telecommunication infrastructure face serious allegations of corruption

However, if investigative reports are perceived as biased, sensationalist, or inaccurate, they can erode trust in the media and institutions. Overall, quality investigative journalism, grounded in facts and ethics, tends to strengthen public confidence in the media as a vital element of a healthy democracy.

What are the legal protections for investigative journalists?

In Bangladesh, the legal protections for investigative journalists are limited, and journalists often face significant risks, including harassment, threats, and violence. While the constitution guarantees freedom of speech and press, in practice, these rights are frequently constrained by government actions and legal restrictions. Exposed to police violence, attacks by political activists and murders orchestrated by Jihadist or criminal organizations, Bangladeshi journalists are all the more vulnerable because this violence goes unpunished over the past few years.

Legal Protections: Constitutional Rights: The Bangladeshi Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and of the press, but these rights are sometimes restricted through laws controlling speech and media content. Press and Media Laws: Laws like the Official Secrets Act and the Digital Security Act (DSA) have been criticized for restricting journalistic work and criminalizing certain types of reporting, especially online. Digital Security Act (2018): Though intended to prevent cybercrimes, it has been used to target journalists reporting on sensitive issues, leading to arrests and intimidation.

Challenges: Many investigative journalists face threats, harassment, and sometimes violence. Enforcement of legal protections is inconsistent, and authorities have been accused of suppressing critical reporting.            International watchdogs, like Reporters Without Borders, rank Bangladesh as "Not Free" in press freedom indices due to these challenges.

Support: Some NGOs and international agencies advocate for stronger legal protections and safer working conditions for journalists in Bangladesh.