Starlink Launch in Bangladesh to End Internet Shutdowns

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam announced that the launch of Elon Musk's Starlink in Bangladesh aims to end the practice of internet shutdowns once and for all. In a post on his verified Facebook account, Alam stated that the introduction of Starlink is a direct response to the frequent internet disruptions during the 16-year rule of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

“Under the Sheikh Hasina regime, the internet was shut down multiple times to suppress protests and opposition movements,” Alam wrote. He emphasized that internet shutdowns are a tool commonly used by authoritarian regimes to stifle dissent and control public discourse.

Alam highlighted the significant negative impact these shutdowns had on Bangladesh’s freelancing community, noting that many freelancers lost contracts and jobs permanently due to the disruptions. He expressed confidence that the arrival of Starlink will ensure no future government can fully block internet access.

“BPO firms, call centers, and freelancers will no longer be at risk of losing connectivity in the event of future attempts to shut down the internet,” Alam added, reinforcing that Starlink will provide a reliable and independent internet service for Bangladesh.