Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md. Mahfuj Alam today emphasized the critical role journalists must play before, during, and after elections in maintaining vigilance and responsibility. He asserted that such actions would help dispel the public's growing distrust towards the media.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser delivered these remarks while presiding over a views exchange meeting focusing on the media's role during elections, held at the Department of Films and Publications' conference room. He highlighted the significance of an unrestricted flow of information during elections, stressing that the public must be kept informed about on-ground realities, including incidents of corruption and violence.
Reflecting on past experiences, Md. Mahfuj Alam noted that media had faced hurdles during previous elections but assured that no such barriers would exist in the upcoming National Parliamentary Election. He also pointed out the importance of media in fostering trust among the significant number of young voters participating this year and emphasized the role of media in informing Bangladeshi expatriates about political parties' activities.
The adviser further stated that the government would take necessary measures to prevent public exposure to violence during the election, urging the media to contribute to this effort. Addressing journalists' concerns, he reassured that the government prioritizes journalists' safety during elections and pledged to review and address any irregular restrictions on election reporting.
Journalists present at the meeting underscored the need for media professionals' safety during elections and advocated for amendments to the Election Commission's regulations concerning media access to polling stations. They also called on the government to prevent the misuse of journalist ID cards during election coverage.
The meeting was attended by Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana, Additional Secretary Md. Kawsar Ahammad, heads of affiliated departments, editors, publishers, and journalists from various media outlets. The session was conducted by Principal Information Officer Md. Nizamul Kabir.