Protecting media essential for democracy: President

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday called for a free, independent and responsible media, describing it as essential to upholding democratic values and strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.
“Protecting the media is essential to safeguarding democracy,” he said, urging journalists and media organisations to defend the country’s independence and sovereignty, promote good governance and keep the media on the right course.
The President made the remarks when a delegation of the Jatiya Press Club (JPC) Managing Committee paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban on Tuesday afternoon.
Recalling his long-standing association with the press club, he said his bond with the institution extended beyond politics. “My relationship with the press club is not merely political; it is a long-standing spiritual relationship. You stood by me during my most difficult times, which is a great achievement for me,” he said.
He stressed the need to reopen newspapers that had been shut down, including those under special trusts, saying this could create employment opportunities for at least 1,000 journalists.
The President also underlined the importance of unity among journalists, warning that division would undermine their ability to advance their interests. “Unity among the journalist community is extremely important, and division will never bring success. If you can unite on fundamental issues, you will be able to build effective relations with both the government and the opposition,” he said.
He urged journalists to act collectively to protect their professional rights and take a firm stand against irregularities and injustices within the media community. He also called on them to help shape the outlook of the younger generation.
“Democracy is a culture. It has to be turned into an institution, and a positive change in mindset is necessary for that change. We have to come out of old authoritarian thinking and embrace democratic values,” he said.
Recalling the press club’s ties with Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, the President assured the JPC of his cooperation in expanding its infrastructure.
The JPC delegation comprised its President Hasan Hafiz, General Secretary Md Ayub Bhuiyan, Managing Committee member and Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Managing Director and Chief Editor Kader Gani Chowdhury, Managing Committee member and The Daily Jugantor Editor Abdul Hye Sikder, Managing Committee member and Principal Information Officer (PIO) Syed Abdal Ahmed, and JPC Treasurer Bakhtiar Rana.