Yunus emphasises critical role of independent journalism
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus emphasised the critical role of independent journalism in fostering national unity and strengthening democracy during a meeting with editors from various media outlets on Tuesday.
Held at the state guesthouse Jamuna, the meeting underscored Yunus's commitment to the principles of a free press.
Addressing the editors, Yunus highlighted the power of a vocal and transparent media.
He urged journalists to remain steadfast in their scrutiny of the government, stressing that their critical role helps align governance with the people's will.
Yunus called for a concerted effort to establish national consensus through diverse and honest reporting, and encouraged editors to point out government mistakes without hesitation.
A significant topic of discussion was the repressive clauses within the Digital Security Act and Cyber Security Act. The editors collectively proposed an immediate suspension of these clauses, particularly those perceived as suppressing journalists, with a commitment to reforming them over time.
The editors also advocated for sweeping constitutional reforms, including the empowerment of local governments and the reformation of autonomous bodies such as the Anti-Corruption Commission, Human Rights Commission, and Election Commission.
They emphasised the need for these bodies to become truly pro-people institutions, with a focus on ensuring that future elections accurately reflect the nation’s sentiments.
Yunus expressed an interest in hearing from the editors about a "reasonable" tenure for the interim government, a topic previously discussed with political parties. While he did not specify a timeline, he assured that he is listening to all perspectives.
Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, along with Deputy Press Secretaries Mohammad Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Apurba Jahangir, briefed reporters after the meeting at the Foreign Service Academy. They noted that all advisers would consider the discussions held with the editors.
The meeting also touched upon the potential formation of a Media Commission and deliberated on issues related to rewriting or amending the constitution.
Some editors proposed a tenure of two years for the interim government, while others suggested that the duration should be determined by the government's reform initiatives.
“It should be between two and three years,” one editor commented.
Yunus iterated his desire for media freedom and a vibrant media landscape, viewing it as a significant opportunity that must be utilised effectively.
Among the twenty editors present were Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman, The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, New Age Editor Nurul Kabir, Jugantor Editor Saiful Alam, The Business Standard Editor Enam Ahmed, and Kalbela Editor Santosh Sharma.
