Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana today emphasized the importance of proper and effective publicity in ensuring free and fair elections. ‘The government’s communication activities should be made more dynamic and strengthened ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and the referendum,’ she stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the secretary made these remarks while addressing a discussion and view-exchange meeting on publicity activities for the 13th National Parliamentary Election. The meeting took place at the conference room of the Press Information Department (PID) at the secretariat. Public relations officers from various ministries and officials from regional information offices were in attendance, with Principal Information Officer Md. Nizamul Kabir presiding over the program.
To facilitate a clear understanding of the ‘Yes-No’ concept of the referendum among grassroots communities, Mahbuba Farjana instructed public relations officers and regional information officials to intensify their efforts. She highlighted several initiatives taken in coordination with the Election Commission to extend the communication activities of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to the public ahead of the national election and referendum.
The secretary announced plans for training programs for journalists in 30 districts and seminars in every division. She underscored the critical role of information officials in combating rumors and misinformation. Mahbuba Farjana urged these officials to thoroughly understand electoral laws and regulations, stressing that public awareness is key to a transparent and accountable election process.
Reflecting on past electoral experiences, she acknowledged the public’s disillusionment with elections over the past 15 years. She called for increased participation from all segments of the population, especially youths, women, and voters from remote areas, encouraging them to engage actively in the electoral process.
Lastly, Mahbuba Farjana commended the professionalism of public relations and regional information officers in executing the government’s communication strategies effectively.