Information adviser assures no action against media, urges responsibility for press freedom

Information adviser Mahfuj Alam has assured that no media outlet will be closed and no action will be taken against journalists for writing against the government.

 

He has also called for ensuring media responsibility and accountability by their own to achieve a free media and freedom of expression. 

 

'We are not going to shut down any media, also not going to take actions against any journalists for writing against the government.. We must ensure responsibility and accountability measures along with freedom. Ethical journalism is essential," the adviser said on Thursday. 

 

He made the remarks while addressing the launching ceremony of UNESCO-UNDP-led assessment of the BD media landscape for free, independent and pluralistic media.

 

Mr Mahfuz, however, said the aspiration of the people for a democratic country has not been realised in accordance with the movement launched to end the fascist regime, calling upon the media to take responsibility.

 

''We have to find a way to make media responsible and accountable to the people,"  the adviser added.

 

He also talked about ensuring the safety and security of journalists after ensuring the media's responsibility and accountability, and said the government has already taken steps for the protection of journalism, not journalists.

 

The information adviser also committed to implementing a wage board and added that Inter inter-ministerial meeting is being convened to work on it, involving with law, labour and information ministries. 

 

"This is the topmost priority," he added. 

 

smunima@yahoo.com