The newly appointed Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaleeve Rahman’s pledge to support the media rather than control it is a welcome and encouraging commitment.
At a time when the relationship between the state and the press is under close scrutiny, recognizing the media as a pillar of democracy and acknowledging its role in exposing government failures and irregularities is an important step in the right direction.
The minister has also rightly distinguished between regulation and control: A functioning democracy needs reasonable regulation to uphold professional and ethical standards, but regulation must never become a means of restricting legitimate journalism, silencing criticism, or influencing editorial decisions.
The media’s responsibility is to inform the public, scrutinize those in power, and give citizens access to facts -- including those that are uncomfortable.
However, promises of press freedom ultimately mean little without corresponding action. Bangladesh has experienced enough instances where commitments to openness have been undermined by practices that constrain journalists and media organizations.
If the government is serious about establishing a new system, as the minister has suggested, this must include creating an environment where journalists can work without intimidation, harassment, or undue political pressure.
To that end, access to information should be facilitated, official communication should be transparent, and journalists should not have to fear repercussions for asking difficult questions or investigating matters of public interest.
There is also a need for institutional safeguards that ensure media freedom does not depend on the goodwill of any particular minister or government.
Strong laws, independent institutions, and clear protections for journalists are more meaningful than assurances alone.
While the minister’s words are certainly encouraging, the real test will come in the months ahead. If actions consistently match these promises, the government can help rebuild public trust and strengthen democratic institutions.
Until then, the country will rightly judge these commitments by what is done, not merely what is said.