Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today called for maintaining integrity and freedom of the journalists for ensuring strong and sustainable democracy. “If we are to have a strong and sustainable democracy, journalistic integrity and freedom must be maintained,” he said in a post on his verified Facebook page. “On this World Press Freedom Day, let us unite to champion the independence of the press and the protection of journalists who report on the truth, with ethical integrity,” he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rahman emphasized the need to set aside differences to build a Bangladesh where elected, accountable governments ensure the freedom of expression, human rights, and the rule of law for all, including that of the press. He stated that journalists serve as a vital pillar of democracy and their work must be protected and embraced, not attacked or censored.
Rahman highlighted the systematic erosion of press freedom in Bangladesh under state-sponsored repression by the recently deposed authoritarian regime. He commended Bangladeshi journalists for their unwavering courage and commitment during those years, as they exposed issues like deep-rooted corruption, human rights violations, and socio-economic failures by the state.
He noted that these brave journalists were found across mainstream and social media, both domestically and internationally, remaining steadfast in their pursuit of truth and fighting for a democratic Bangladesh. Rahman expressed that the BNP draws inspiration from a new brand of journalism that upholds the highest standards of ethics and integrity.
Rahman affirmed the BNP’s respect for fearless and objective reporting, even when it may not align with the party’s agenda. He reiterated the belief that a free and independent media is crucial for democracy, emphasizing that journalism with integrity and objectivity should serve the people above politics.