Independent media key to transparent governance, says information minister

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that ensuring an independent media is essential for maintaining accountability and transparency in state governance.

He added that the government has taken various initiatives to support media independence and discourage unethical practices.

The minister made the remarks at the installation and reception ceremony of the newly elected committee of the Munshiganj Press Club at the district's Shilpakala Academy auditorium yesterday afternoon (5 May).

"If the media can work independently, society, the state and politics will remain under continuous accountability. When these institutions are accountable, the state will progress and governance will be transparent," he said.

Swapan said democracy is strengthened when the media operates independently, while irresponsible journalism can hinder democratic processes.

"It is the right of the people to receive accurate information. Media workers must always present factual reporting and keep pace with the times," he said.

He added that the government is engaging with organisations related to the newspaper industry to help ensure media independence and is working to formulate appropriate policies for the sector.

"No media outlet will receive government facilities in the name of TRP," he said.

The event was chaired by Munshiganj Press Club President Atiqur Rahman Tipu and moderated by its General Secretary Gulzar Rahman.

Among others, Munshiganj-3 lawmaker Kamruzzaman Ratan, Deputy Commissioner (Acting) Moushumi Mahbub, District Council Administrator AKM Eradat Manu, Superintendent of Police Md Menhajul Alam, and Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Mossaberul Islam attended the programme, along with journalists and representatives from various professions.