Journalists' woes must end to fix media: Info Minister

Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan on Wednesday pledged unwavering support for journalists, saying media reform is impossible unless reporters' own hardships are addressed.

"Media freedom is part of the government's roadmap under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman," he said while speaking to reporters during a visit to the National Press Club before formally joining his office at the Secretariat.

Calling the Press Club his "second home" since student life, Swapan said his long association with journalists and politics makes the portfolio deeply personal. "I am proud to be known by journalists," he added.

The minister stressed that structural problems in the media sector cannot be resolved without ensuring fair wages, job security and professional dignity for journalists. His ministry, he said, will engage all stakeholders - especially the journalist community - in patient, inclusive dialogue to craft solutions.

Swapan reached the Press Club around 100pm, accompanied by State Minister for Home Affairs Yaser Khan Chowdhury. Press Club President Hasan Hafiz received them.

He later exchanged greetings with reporters in the TV room. Among those present were BFUJ Secretary General Quader Gani Chowdhury, Vice President KM Mohsin, Dhaka Journalists Union President Shahidul Islam, Vice President Bashir Jamal, Press Club member Kazi Rawnak Hossain, and BNP Media Cell member Shairul Kabir Khan, among others.

After the visit, Swapan proceeded to the Secretariat, where Information Secretary Mahbuba Farzana welcomed him with flowers and introduced him to ministry officials.