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DHAKA, Dec 31, 2024 (BSS) - Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman today called for further improving the proposed Cyber Security Ordinance-2024 by taking the opinions of the stakeholders.

"The ordinance has been formulated in a hurry. The way the Cyber Security Ordinance has been drafted is unacceptable. It largely repeats the previous act. I hope, the proposed Cyber Security Ordinance-2024 will be streamlined by taking the opinions of the stakeholders," he said.

He made the call while speaking at a press conference titled 'Proposed Cyber ??Security Ordinance 2024: Review and Recommendations' in the capital's Dhanmondi.

This ordinance, like the previous Digital Security Act and Cyber Security Act, has risks of hindering citizens' freedom of speech and expression.

If this ordinance is passed without adequate analysis and inclusive review by stakeholders, there is a risk of undermining its main purpose, he added.

Dr Mohammad Ershadul Karim, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, virtually joined the press conference and presented several recommendations on Cyber Security Ordinance-2024.

He said this ordinance has mixed up provisions related to cyber security, cyber crime, cyber protection and people's rights to expression.

Noting that issues related to freedom of expression are a bit complex and sensitive, he said the government and policy makers should conduct detailed research on this matter before enacting the law.

In making the ordinance, he suggested involving relevant stakeholders in the overall process to take their opinions.

TIB Executive Management Adviser Prof Dr Sumaiya Khair and TIB Outreach and Communication Director Mohammad Tauhidul Islam were present on the occasion.