Feni: Managing Director and Chief Editor of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Kamal Uddin Mozumder Sabuj today urged fellow newsmen to enjoy press freedom maintaining professional responsibility as he joined as the chief guest at a function to mark the World Press Freedom Day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Sabuj emphasized that there had been no interference from the government since it assumed office two and a half months ago. However, he stressed that journalists should uphold their professionalism and maintain responsibility. Sabuj pointed out that despite the lack of government interference, media industry owners sometimes impose ‘censorship’ to protect their interests.
He warned that if mainstream media cannot operate freely due to government interference, as seen during 17 years of fascist rule, social media could replace them. Sabuj noted that social media, being unaccountable, often become sources of misinformation or rumors, posing challenges to mainstream mass media.
Sabuj proposed the creation of a roadmap through a joint initiative involving the government, media owners, journalists, and other stakeholders to address these challenges. The event was organized by Feni Reporters Unity (FRU) and chaired by the organization’s president, Mohammad Shahadat Hossain. It honored senior journalists Osman Harun Mahmud Dulal, Ismail Hossain Siraji, and Abul Kashem Chowdhury with journalism awards.
Special guests at the function included Daily Amar Kagoj Editor Fazlul Haque Bhuiyan Rana, BNP National Executive Committee member and Public Prosecutor Mezbah Uddin Khan, and Jamaat central Majlish-e-Shura member Professor Liaqat Ali Bhuiyan. Sabuj remarked that no media in the world enjoyed complete freedom and that there is no such thing as total neutrality. He highlighted that journalists must navigate their path through struggle and responsibility.
Sabuj observed that the media conditions in Europe, America, and neighboring India were not encouraging, citing attempts by governments to control the media, including threats from US President Donald Trump. He argued that Bangladesh’s media scenario was better in comparison, urging journalists to take advantage by performing their duties with professionalism.
He advised that reports must be objective and editing must be done responsibly. Sabuj, a native of Feni, acknowledged the district’s historical contributions to journalism, politics, business, industry, and culture. He encouraged the present generation of Feni to continue this legacy.
The discussion was moderated by FRU’s general secretary, Didarul Alam, and also featured addresses by district correspondents of different media houses and local journalists’ leaders.