Independent media must for sustainable democracy: Fakhrul

Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar "Role of Media in Sustainable Democracy", organised by Television Editors Council (TCE) at a hotel in the capital, he said democracy can only be strengthened when the media is strong.

The seminar was chaired by TCE Convener Dr. Abdul Hai Siddique and attended by editors, senior journalists and representatives of various media organisations.

Minister urged the government, media owners, journalists and state institutions to work together to build an effective democratic environment.

Mirza Fakhrul said democracy is not just about elections but also about culture, tolerance and respect for differing opinions. He said branding a government as a failure within five months of taking office and creating political unrest reflects intolerance and goes against democratic values.

BNP Secretary General said those who say they will not allow the government to complete its five-year term are using the same language as former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 

He also claimed that the BNP inherited a country with weakened democratic institutions and severe crises after years of misrule. He said rebuilding institutions and resolving problems in the power and banking sectors would take time and called for patience under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

He stressed that democracy cannot become sustainable without strong state institutions. He described truth-telling as the media's greatest responsibility and urged journalists to remain committed to objective reporting. 

He also called for ensuring journalists' professional security, fair salaries, benefits and an independent working environment.

The minister expressed concern over challenges facing the media industry, including the dismissal of editors without notice and the financial dependence of media owners on bank loans, which he said affects independent journalism. 

He also warned about the growing misuse of social media, saying fake information and misleading videos are causing serious harm, and called for effective regulation similar to measures adopted in several European countries.

Presenting the keynote speech, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said the July Mass Uprising had created new opportunities to strengthen public trust. 

He said the government is working to build a stronger media ecosystem through clear regulations rather than control and pledged to create an investment-friendly environment by addressing the challenges posed by social media and artificial intelligence (AI). He also urged media owners to ensure proper wages and a healthy working environment for journalists.

Chief News Editor of Independent Television Mustafa Akmal said independent, neutral and responsible media are essential for sustainable democracy and presented 10 policy recommendations to strengthen journalists' professional protection and media independence.

Speakers stressed the need for media freedom, accountability, fair reporting and the speedy formation of an independent media commission.