Strong media key to democracy: Fakhrul

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday called on journalists to uphold objectivity and impartiality in their reporting, saying a strong and independent media is essential for a vibrant democracy.

Addressing a felicitation programme for the newly-elected committee of the Thakurgaon Press Club at the club’s Anisul Huq Auditorium, he said journalists should carry out their professional duties without fear or favour.

“A democracy becomes stronger when its media is strong. I urge you all to criticise those who do wrong and appreciate those who do good. One of the key responsibilities of journalism is to identify the shortcomings of politicians and help guide them in the right direction,” he said.

The minister said politicians are not above criticism, and that constructive scrutiny by the media plays a vital role in ensuring accountability. “While working to fulfil people’s expectations, politicians may make mistakes. It is the responsibility of the media to highlight those mistakes and ensure accountability,” he said.

Expressing concern over attacks and harassment faced by journalists for publishing factual reports, Fakhrul said such incidents undermine democratic values and press freedom.

“The stronger the media of a country, the stronger its democracy. The success of democracy largely depends on an independent and responsible media,” he added.

Turning to the government’s election commitments, the minister said approval had been given for the establishment of two new upazilas in Thakurgaon, and that the necessary administrative process was already under way.

He cautioned, however, that infrastructure development alone would not be enough, stressing that the country also needs competent, honest and responsible leadership to ensure good governance.

Addressing the journalists directly, Fakhrul urged them to judge people by their work rather than their personalities. “Those who perform well deserve appreciation, while irregularities and corruption must be exposed through fearless reporting,” he said.

He congratulated the newly-elected committee of the Thakurgaon Press Club and expressed hope that its members would strengthen public confidence through objective journalism and take the organisation to new heights.

Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rafiqul Haque, Superintendent of Police Belal Hossain, Thakurgaon district BNP President Mirza Faisal Amin, General Secretary Paygam Ali, and journalists from various print and electronic media outlets were present at the programme.