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Nizam Ahmed was an outspoken journo

Published : Monday, 17 February, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 332
Arnab Ashraf
In the wee hours of Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Nizam Uddin Ahmed, Business Editor of this daily, passed away at the age of 72, leaving us deeply saddened and shocked. His death marked the end of a 45-year-long colourful career as a veteran journalist, dedicated to the spirit of true-to-life freedom fighting. Nizam Ahmed was a figure imbued with an unwavering sense of fraternity, Bengali nationalism, and supreme patriotism.

Nizam began his journalistic career in the 1980s in Chattogram, where he worked as the bureau chief for the Daily New Nation. Throughout his career, he was the former General Secretary of the Chattogram Press Club (JPC), and the Chattogram Journalist's Housing Society. Nizam was also a long-serving correspondent for Reuters in Dhaka before joining The Daily Observer. After his namaz-e-janaza, he was laid to rest in the family graveyard at Sufi Miajibari in Adhunagar Village, Lohagora Upazila, Chattogram District.

His colleagues and peers expressed their deep sorrow at his passing. Jatiya Press Club president Poet Hasan Hafiz, General Secretary Aiyub Bhuiyan, and others mourned the loss of this notable journalist.

Nizam Ahmed's legacy in the realm of journalism remains a role-model. In the current media landscape, where journalists must often navigate complex economic pressures, a few have made such profound contributions as Nizam. He was known for his exceptional journalistic career, his unwavering commitment to truth, and his courage in the face of adversity. He embodied the essence of dedication to his country and the values of integrity, justice, and truth that define true journalism.

During a discussion meeting at The Daily Observer on Saturday, February 1, 2025, Editor Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury highlighted profound contributions of Nizam Ahmed to the Daily Observer. He expressed his condolence to the bereaved family and called for upholding the values Nizam Ahmed had possessed. Senior journalist Jibon Islam, who worked alongside Nizam as a Business Correspondent, shared a touching anecdote, remembering how Nizam, even in his final moments, was thinking about his work. "He was highly serious about his work," Jibon recalled. "Even when he was being taken to the hospital, he asked his colleague Atik to stay at office saying: 'If you go (to the hospital with him), who will work (on tomorrow's pages)?'"

Similarly, Executive Editor Akhtarul Haque recalled meeting Nizam in 1970, recalling his composed demeanour and respect for the work at hand. "I have great respect for him -Shradda," Haq remarked.

Despite Nizam's many contributions to journalism, his legacy remains shadowed by a painful truth: though he was a freedom fighter and a patriot, he was not given state honour, a sentiment echoed by many of his colleagues.

Nizam Ahmed's life began in turbulent times. Born in an era when Bangladesh was still part of Pakistan. His early years were marked by the rising political unrest that culminated in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. At the time, Nizam served in the Pakistan Air Force. Yet, when the Pakistani military began its violent crackdown on the Bengali population during the liberation war, Nizam made a courageous decision that would shape his future.


Abandoning his post in the air force, Nizam joined the liberation movement, fully aware of the risks involved. His choice was not just one of political allegiance, but also of personal conviction. His commitment to the liberation of Bangladesh defined his character, and during the war, Nizam was captured by Pakistani forces. He spent months in prison, enduring brutal physical and psychological torture, yet his resolve remained unbroken. These sacrifices in the face of oppression made him a revered figure among his peers.

Nizam Ahmed's entry into journalism in the early 1980s was not merely a career choice but a calling that reflected his dedication to truth and integrity. He started his career as a cub reporter for The Daily People's View in Chattogram, where he quickly made his mark with his steadfast dedication to accuracy and professionalism. It was his role as the Chattogram Correspondent for The New Nation that allowed him to establish himself as a respected voice in journalism.
As the Bangladesh News Agency (BNA) came into being, Nizam's reputation soared. His ability to report with both depth and accuracy made him one of the most sought-after journalists of his time. His stories spanned a wide range of subjects, including politics, business, and social issues, but always adhered to the highest journalistic standards.

His ability to navigate complex political landscapes without compromising on journalistic principles showcased his embodiment of British values of journalism: scrutinising those in power, providing a platform for the voiceless, and informing the public with dignity and respect. Nizam's career was built on a foundation of integrity, making him a paragon of the journalistic profession.

Beyond his reporting, Nizam Ahmed was a dedicated mentor to the next generation of journalists. He took pride in shaping the careers of many young reporters, offering guidance, support, and wisdom to help them navigate the challenges of the industry. His leadership was crucial in organisations, such as the Chattogram Press Club, where he served as General Secretary, promoting press freedom and ethical standards.

In his personal life, Nizam Ahmed was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished his family deeply, and their support through his career was instrumental in his success. His sense of loyalty and devotion to his family mirrored his commitment to his work.

Nizam was also known for his warmth and generosity. He was a friend to many and would offer support to both colleagues and those in need. His sense of camaraderie was widely felt, and his kindness and sense of justice made him a beloved figure in the Bangladeshi journalistic community.

In a world where journalism is often under attack, where misinformation and political interference threaten the free flow of information, Nizam's career serves as a beacon of hope for future generations of journalists. His life reminds us that journalism is not simply about reporting the news; it is about standing firm in the face of adversity, fighting for the truth, and holding those in power accountable.

Nizam's courage in both his journalistic endeavours and as a freedom fighter will continue to inspire future generations. His work, his dedication, and his moral compass have left an indelible mark on the industry. The values he championed throughout his 45 years of service to journalism will continue to resonate, ensuring his legacy endures.

In his last moments, he remained true to the values he had lived by for so long: dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to truth. His passing is a great loss to the journalism community.

Rest in peace, Nizam Bhai. Your work, your passion, and your example will continue to inspire all of us who seek to uphold the truth through the noble craft of journalism.

The writer is a journalist in The Daily Observer


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