Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaleeve Rahman, commonly referred to as Partho, assured on Thursday that the government will not obstruct press freedom or interfere in the professional activities of journalists.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Partho made this declaration during a program celebrating the 31st founding anniversary of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) in the capital. The event was also attended by Yeaser Khan Chowdhury, the state minister for information and broadcasting.
Partho emphasized the crucial role the media plays in Bangladesh's democratic journey, reiterating the government's commitment to maintaining an environment conducive to a free and responsible press. He acknowledged the media's significant contribution to the country's democratic development, equating its importance to that of other vital stakeholders.
Addressing the journalists at the event, Partho, who recently took office following a cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, assured, "InshaAllah, you will have free media during our time. We have no intention of interfering with the media or your journalism in any way."
State Minister Yeaser also revealed the government's initiative to increase the allocation for the Journalist Welfare Trust from Tk 6 crore to Tk 25 crore. A proposal has already been submitted, with discussions underway with the Finance Ministry, which evaluates the feasibility of such proposals.
The program saw participation from DRU leaders and journalists from various media outlets. DRU, established 31 years ago, serves as the sole professional organization for working reporters based in Dhaka.