Dhaka, April 4 -- On the surface, Bangladesh's new interim government-backed "fact-checking" platforms-CA Press Wing Facts and BanglaFact-might seem like a sensible response to rising misinformation. But look closer, and it becomes clear that these initiatives raise troubling questions-for press freedom, democratic accountability, and the Constitution itself.

Launched on 24 October 2024 by the interim government's Chief Adviser's Press Wing, CA Press Wing Facts began as a Facebook page designed to counter so-called "misinformation and propaganda" surrounding government activities. In early 2025, BanglaFact was introduced by the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB), ostensibly to enhance media research and verify information, particularly ...