BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said political parties do not seek to control journalists, but many journalists willingly align themselves with partisan interests.
“No one in political parties wants to take you (journalists) into their pockets. But if you choose to get into their pockets, that becomes a problem,” Fakhrul said. “We have seen what happened over the last 15 years – journalists themselves took the initiative to support fascism.”
He made the remarks at a seminar titled ‘Review of Media Reform Report’, organised by the Broadcast Journalist Center (BJC) at the Celebrity Hall of the Bangladesh-China Friendship International Conference Center in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar on Monday, November 24, afternoon.
Addressing journalists, Fakhrul said, “You have many unions – DUJ, BFUJ – and each has two or three factions. You are becoming party members yourselves. Journalists need commitment. You must stay out of these political pockets and practise courageous journalism.”
On the issue of media reform, Fakhrul noted that although the government-formed Media Reform Commission has prepared its report, it has not yet been opened for public discussion. “Whatever happens, if we are entrusted with running the government through the people, we will give this issue priority.”
Recalling past political developments, he said, “A one-party regime was introduced through BKSAL in 1975 and all newspapers were shut down. Later, Ziaur Rahman laid the foundation for a free press.”
He added that the modern television industry in Bangladesh began its journey during the BNP’s tenure.
“We have clearly stated in our 31-point outline that we want an independent media. That’s why we supported forming the commission. The report is ready, but unfortunately, there has been no discussion,” Fakhrul said.
At the seminar, a representative from Jamaat-e-Islami highlighted the need to strengthen the country’s stance in news presentation, while NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain called for reducing political influence within media houses.
Others who spoke at the event included BNP Media Cell Convener Dr Moudud Hossain Alamgir Pavel, AB Party Chairman Mojibur Rahman Manju, CPB leader Ruhin Hossain Prince, Nagarik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna, Bangladesher Samajtanrik Dal leader Rajequzzaman Ratan, Gana Samhati Andolan Chief Coordinator Zonayed Saki, Gana Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur, BJC Chairman Rejoanul Haque, Islamic Movement Professor Ashraf Ali Akon, BJC Trustee Talat Mamun, and Jamuna TV CEO and BJC Trustee Fahim Ahmed.