BNP to ensure press freedom to safeguard democracy: Salahuddin
He urged journalists to work with conscience, not just as employees of media owners, and stressed that media should safeguard national sovereignty and democracy
BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Wednesday said the party will ensure full media freedom in Bangladesh, a promise included in its 31-point plan.
Speaking at a Meet-the-Press event in a Chakaria hotel, Salahuddin said BNP would establish a media reform commission and implement measures based on its recommendations.
"A media reform commission has already been formed, and the BNP will review its proposals," he said.
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He urged journalists to work with conscience, not just as employees of media owners, and stressed that media should safeguard national sovereignty and democracy.
Highlighting the importance of press freedom for democracy, he said, "In countries where media freedom is guaranteed, the democratic structure is stronger."
Noting global digitalisation, he said, "Information now spreads worldwide within moments, and everyone must act with caution to uphold the nation's dignity."
Salahuddin recalled that an open media environment was fostered in 1991 under Begum Khaleda Zia, allowing electronic media to flourish, but said over the past 16–17 years, media partisanship has affected democracy.
The event was attended by Chakaria Upazila BNP President Enamul Haque, General Secretary M Mobarak Ali, Cox's Bazar Journalists' Union President Nurul Islam Helali, Cox's Bazar Press Club President Mahbubur Rahman, and local media personnel.
