Dhaka University’s campus witnessed dramatic scenes on Monday afternoon when multimedia journalists collectively boycotted the press conference of Daksu vice president candidate Umama Fatema. The press meet, arranged in front of the Daksu building, was cut short as reporters from various news outlets walked out in protest, declaring their refusal to cover the event unless the candidate withdrew controversial remarks made earlier.
According to sources, the conflict stems from a Facebook post by Umama Fatema last week, where she openly questioned the role of multimedia journalists in the recent Daksu elections. In her post, she reportedly alleged that their activities were disrupting the electoral environment, which many journalists considered as a direct insult to their integrity and professional responsibility.
Speaking after leaving the press conference, one of the aggrieved journalists said, “Umama Fatema claimed that multimedia journalists are spoiling the election atmosphere. Through this remark, she insulted us. Her statement has left us deeply hurt and aggrieved.” The journalist further added that they expected the VP candidate to take responsibility for her words, stating, “We demand that she retract her comment and offer a formal apology. She must clarify the matter through a public post on social media.”
The boycott significantly disrupted the proceedings of the scheduled press briefing, leaving Umama Fatema without media coverage at a critical time in her campaign. Observers noted that such a standoff between a prominent student leader and the media could have far-reaching implications, as public perception in a heated student election often depends heavily on coverage by multimedia platforms.
As the situation stands, journalists remain firm in their demand for a retraction and apology, while Umama Fatema has yet to make a public response regarding the controversy. The incident highlights the fragile relationship between student leaders and the press in a politically charged university atmosphere, and whether reconciliation will follow remains uncertain.