Dhaka: BNP has pledged its full cooperation in ensuring the freedom of the media. Top BNP leaders, at a views exchange meeting with media personalities to mark the homecoming of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, stated that moving past all previous bitterness, the BNP will provide total support to the media if it returns to state power, keeping in mind the repression and persecution carried out by the previous fascist government.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the leaders expressed hope that if the BNP comes to power, there will be ample space for critical journalism and independent media. The meeting, held at a city hotel, was attended by editors, executive editors, and news chiefs from most of the country’s leading media outlets. They shared their expectations with BNP leadership.
Speaking at the event, National Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed said if the BNP assumes state power in the future, it will provide full cooperation to the media. He emphasized that this support would be guaranteed based on the lessons learned from the repression experienced under the previous fascist regime.
Prothom Alo editor Matiur Rahman remarked on the dire times for the press during previous regimes, expressing hope that such an era has ended. He mentioned the challenges faced by journalists, including imprisonment on false charges and forced changes in newspaper ownership. He noted that the BNP’s previous tenures were relatively more comfortable for the media.
Referring to a survey conducted by Prothom Alo regarding the elections, he said that the BNP is currently the largest party in Bangladesh, anticipating a major victory. He called for humility from BNP leaders and expressed belief in continued solidarity across political lines following recent attacks on media houses.
The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam highlighted the unprecedented attacks on media houses like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, urging for a constructive platform for criticism and freedom of expression. He questioned whether BNP’s current cordial attitude towards the media would persist if they come to power, noting the historical aversion of ruling parties to media criticism.
Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, Chief Editor of Daily Manab Zamin, emphasized the need for unity to face upcoming challenges, describing the current situation as volatile and difficult. He expressed encouragement by the BNP leaders’ speeches regarding future media policy.
Jamuna Television CEO Fahim Ahmed questioned the BNP’s role during recent attacks on media houses, noting the need for continued questioning of power despite risks. He hoped for an end to being labeled as accomplices of fascism when questioning authority.
The meeting saw participation from a wide range of senior editors and journalists, along with senior BNP leaders and members of the BNP Media Cell. Attendees suggested holding such views exchange meetings periodically to discuss the overall situation.