Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday night spoke over the phone with the editors of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star following what he described as a “barbaric” attack on the offices of the two leading newspapers.

The information was shared in a press release issued by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing on Friday afternoon.

Expressing deep sympathy to Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman and The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, Prof Yunus said, “The unexpected and heinous attack on your institutions and journalists has deeply saddened me. In this difficult time, the government stands by you.”

He said the attack on two of the country’s leading media houses amounted to an assault on independent journalism, creating a major obstacle to Bangladesh’s democratic progress and the free practice of journalism.

During the telephone conversation, the Chief Adviser assured the editors of full security for them and their media organisations, along with all necessary support.

He also said he would meet the editors in person very soon.