Jalshiri: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today called for protecting freedom of the press at any cost. "We will take all-out efforts to protect the freedom of the press, the freedom of the people and the freedom of voting rights at any cost. Because, we are with you (the media) just like we are with the people," he said. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul made the call while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled 'Akkromoner Mukhey Swadhin Sangbadikota O Gono Maddhyom Protishthan' (Independent Journalism and Mass Media Institutions in the face of Attack) at Hotel Sonargaon in the capital. The event was organized by the Newspaper Owners' Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and presided over by NOAB President AK Azad, where leaders of various political parties addressed. Criticizing the attacks on media, Fakhrul expressed his disbelief at the necessity to discuss this issue in the current era. He remarked, "Today, I have never thought t hat I would have to talk about this issue. Especially after August 5, when we are all living in an environment free from fascists." He lamented that even after 53 years and the students-people uprising, discussions about attacks on the media remain necessary. Fakhrul highlighted the importance of the fight for freedom of speech and democracy. He expressed concern over misinformation being spread, leading to anarchy and chaos. "We all need to work together to stop this. Otherwise, the goal for which our sons and our people embraced martyrdom will ultimately go in vain," he stated. He emphasized the need for practicing democracy properly in the country, asserting that an elected government is preferable to any other form. Fakhrul also referred to the recent unrest in the country, suggesting there is a conspiracy to undermine the potential of democracy and the people's aspirations in Bangladesh, which he insisted must be stopped.
