Dhaka: BNP Standing Committee member Prof Dr A Z M Zahid Hossain emphasized the responsibility of journalists to not only praise but also criticize the government when necessary. Speaking at a discussion held at the Jatiya Press Club (JPC), Dr Zahid criticized the tendency of some journalists to avoid questioning the government, particularly concerning agreements made between Bangladesh and India during the Awami League’s tenure.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was organized jointly by the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) and Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ) to commemorate ‘Black Day’ for newspapers. DUJ President Shahidul Islam presided over the event, with General Secretary Khurshid Alam conducting the session. Dr Zahid urged journalists to embrace truth-telling, noting the challenges faced by many due to oppressive regimes, which have led to job losses and persecution.
Dr Zahid further warned journalists that aligning with the truth ultimately ensures longevity in the profession, contrasting it with the fate of fallen fascists who may be forced to flee. The discussion saw participation from various notable figures, including National Press Club President Poet Hasan Hafiz and former Editor of The New Nation Mustafa Kamal Majumder, among others.
BFUJ Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury recalled a significant moment in the nation’s history when, on June 16, 1975, the then Awami League government led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman shut down all newspapers except two government-run and two privately owned dailies. This decision, he argued, was a blow to democracy, resulting in the loss of livelihoods for hundreds of journalists.