‘Ethical legal journalism vital for rule of law’

President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Wednesday called on members of the Law Reporters’ Forum (LRF) to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and integrity, emphasising the crucial role of legal journalism in strengthening public confidence in the justice system.

The appeal came during a courtesy meeting with a 12-member delegation of the Law Reporters’ Forum, led by its President Hasan Zaved and General Secretary Moniruzzaman Mission, at Bangabhaban.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, President’s Press Secretary Sarwar Alam said the President described legal journalism as an essential link between the judiciary and the public. He said law reporters play a significant role in ensuring fair and accurate coverage of court proceedings and landmark judgments.

The President also praised legal journalists for helping raise public awareness by presenting complex legal issues in a clear and understandable manner. Highlighting the foundations of democratic governance, Mohammed Shahabuddin said the supremacy of the Constitution, the rule of law and the administration of justice remain the core pillars of a democratic state.

He said the government is giving the highest priority to upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, safeguarding human rights and promoting good governance in accordance with the Constitution.

The President noted that a range of initiatives is being implemented to modernise the judiciary and expand the use of information technology within the justice system. He expressed hope that coordinated efforts by lawyers, legal journalists and other stakeholders would make access to justice easier and faster.

He also urged legal journalists to preserve the dignity of the courts and exercise caution when reporting on cases that are sub judice.

Referring to challenges in the digital age, the President called on journalists to remain vigilant against misinformation, disinformation and false content circulating on social media.

Earlier, Mohammed Shahabuddin unveiled a special souvenir published to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of the Law Reporters’ Forum.

Among those present were Secretary to the President Khan Mohammad Nurul Amin, Press Secretary Md Sarwar Alam and Assistant Military Secretary Brig Gen Mohammad Raisul Islam.