Mahfuz Anam, editor and publisher of the English daily The Daily Star, has said that the Awami League government's suppression of media was one of the major reasons for its downfall.
He also said that if the government had allowed media freedom, it would have received crucial feedback and insights. "However, by stifling the voice of the press, the truth never reached them."
He made these comments on Sunday at a seminar organized to mark the 30th anniversary of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) at Brac Centre in Mohakhali, Dhaka.
Mahfuz Anam said: "Over the past 15 years, freedom of thought has been under attack. We are still in a state of psychological turmoil."
He questioned: "Have I transitioned from a fascist psychology to a new mindset? Have I truly managed to break free from that mentality?"
Emphasizing the need for accountability, he said: "The media ensures daily accountability. While other institutions may ensure it periodically, independent media guarantees it continuously."
He added that the previous government's downfall was partly due to its repression of media voices, which prevented the truth from reaching decision-makers.
Highlighting CPD’s role, Mahfuz Anam said it had become an alternative platform for the people.
He noted that CPD’s views are research-based and data-driven, and its relationship with the media is built on trust and confidence.
