DHAKA: The British High Commission, MRDI and Thomson Foundation have the pleasure of announcing the winners of the 2013-14 Bangladesh Inquirer award for investigative reporting into transparency and public finance issues.

All three winners have produced original, high impact stories with in depth research. Print winner Mosabber Hossain from Prothom Alo, TV winner Mahabub Alam Lablu of Independent TV and the radio winner Amin Al Rasheed of ABC Radio will be going forward to the final round of regional judging against entries from Sri Lanka. The winning journalist will visit London for a one week study tour.

The Deputy Director of Development at the Thomson Foundation David Quin said, "There has been quite a buzz around this year's competition, with over 120 entries, news rooms are being encouraged, and brave in-depth work is being supported to reach the widest possible audience and make a real difference to public debate around accountability and corruption."

Project partner MRDI's Executive Director Hasibur Rahman said that the award is strengthening coverage. He further said, "I think this kind of award will encourage transparency and accountability in public fund management and is having a clear impact on the way the media cover these issue and we can see it in the way reporters have set to work this year."

British High Commissioner Robert Gibson said, “I am pleased to see journalists being given the opportunity by their organizations to investigate these important issues. Sound management of public finances is an essential part of Bangladesh’s aspiration to prosper and grow. Good journalism plays an important part in shining a light on public finances, helping to improve public accountability and deny the secrecy required for corrupt practices.”

BDST: 1945 HRS, APR 28, 2014