Editors of national daily newspapers have said that the Chief Advisor Dr Muhammad Yunus of the interim government has encouraged the media to be outspoken and transparent in their coverage, particularly when critiquing the government.
While addressing editors from various media outlets in a meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna on Tuesday, Yunus expressed his firm belief in the power of free press.
“The chief adviser said that he believes in the freedom of the media and wants to see vibrant media in Bangladesh.”
After the meeting, the President of the Editors' Council and Editor of The Daily Star, Mahfuz Anam briefed journalists, stating that the editors expressed solidarity with the interim government's actions.
Chief Adviser: Interim govt believes in media freedomHe stated that Yunus has urged them to promote national consensus through their writings. Yunus has welcomed their suggestions and has instructed them to publish any mistakes or faults of the government without hesitation, while also cooperating with his administration.
The chief adviser held a meeting with the editors of 20 leading newspapers.
Mahfuz Anam emphasized their desire for a new horizon for Bangladesh, including ensuring journalists' safety and stopping arbitrary murder cases against them. He called for clear government positions on these issues.
The discussion also touched upon national unity, with editors expressing hope for the establishment of national consensus and political unity. They highlighted the need for significant reforms, including constitutional amendments, strengthening local government, restructuring autonomous bodies like the Anti-Corruption Commission, Human Rights Commission, and Election Commission, and ensuring a truly people-oriented Election Commission for future elections.
The editors also emphasized that the Anti-Corruption Commission should independently investigate and address corruption.
The discussion also covered the need to abolish black laws controlling the media, such as the Digital Security Act and Cyber Security Act, which have been used to suppress journalists.
Mahfuz Anam noted that Yunus assured these laws would be reformed and not used for harassment.
Regarding journalists' safety, Yunus indicated that such issues are not part of his government's policy.
The Daily Star editor mentioned that discussions included forming a special committee to address constitutional amendments, judicial independence, and police restructuring. The meeting also addressed the duration of the government’s term.
“Yunus sought opinions on the possible duration, with various political parties suggesting different timeframes. The chief advisor wants to gauge public opinion on this matter through the media.”
Mahfuz Anam concluded that the world is keenly observing the changes in Bangladesh and is willing to assist as needed.
Hasan Hafiz, president of the National Press Club, added that even those who previously did not support Bangladesh are now showing interest.
Anam also highlighted a recent diplomatic effort by the interim government’s chief advisor to secure general amnesty for 57 Bangladeshis sentenced in the UAE, a move that was well-received internationally.
Editors suggested transforming government media agencies like Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), BTV, and Radio into autonomous entities to ensure they can perform their professional duties effectively.
Managing Director and Chief Editor of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Mahbub Morshed, Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman, The New Age Editor Nurul Kabir, Dhaka Tribune Editor Zafar Sobhan, Daily Jugantor Editor Saiful Alam, Kaler Kantho Editor Hasan Hafiz, Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, Editor of The Business Standard Enam Ahmed, Kalbela Editor Santosh Sharma, Dainik Amader Shomoy Editor Abul Momen, Daily Sangbad Editor Altamash Kabir, Dainik Azadi MA Malek, Desh Rupantor Editor Mustafa Mamun, and Protidiner Bangladesh Editor Mustafiz Shafi were, among others, present at the meeting.
