Dhaka: BNP Acting Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated on Thursday that despite the presence of numerous television channels and newspapers in Bangladesh over the past 17 years, freedom of expression was effectively restricted to one individual and one political party. Rizvi made these comments during a program organized on the premises of the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) to mark its 31st founding anniversary.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Rizvi emphasized that those attempting to express views outside the permitted framework faced severe repercussions, including enforced disappearances or imprisonment. He described the situation during that period as terrible, highlighting the control exerted over media, talk shows, and social media platforms by a singular political entity.
Rizvi praised grassroots journalists for maintaining a semblance of democratic spirit despite these constraints. He acknowledged the efforts of many field journalists who, despite operating under challenging circumstances, kept the light of democracy alive. He also commended the Dhaka Reporters Unity for playing a crucial role in Bangladesh's democratic struggle, especially when freedom of expression was heavily suppressed.
Rizvi further noted that journalists encountered significant pressure, with numerous instances of harassment, imprisonment, and persecution under repressive laws, such as the Digital Security Act. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the current environment, which he believes offers greater freedom for individuals to express their views openly.
In his concluding remarks, Rizvi highlighted the importance of media as a pillar of democratic commitment, advocating for constructive criticism of government activities by all political entities as a means to build a democratic society and state.