We believe freedom of media and freedom of expression are inevitably necessary to consolidate democracy. And freedom of press and the expansion of media in Bangladesh are examples for other developing countries.
Media should play a responsible role by enjoying freedom in publishing or broadcasting stories on the 12th national parliamentary elections. Sometimes the media mislead people by presenting news omitting the necessary parts.
Media people should Therefore, be more responsible and maintain objectivity in election reporting to play a positive role in the overall election process or political process by providing authentic news. Journalists play a critical role everywhere strengthening democratic institutions by reporting on facts, transparency and accountability. This role is more important now than ever. Journalism is a noble profession and its role is getting greater importance around the world. We believe in media freedom. The mass media has not expanded in many neighbouring countries and does not enjoy such unfettered freedom as it does in our country.
Journalists play a
critical role everywhere strengthening
democratic institutions by
reporting on facts
If there is responsibility with freedom, mass media can operate properly. But if the freedom is exercised avoiding responsibility and obligation then in many cases the society as well as the state is harmed.
The mass media is the fourth pillar of the state and democracy and the mass media are complement to each other. Without freedom and transparency of media, democracy can never be operative and democratic social system cannot survive. The government has emphasised on the expansion and freedom of the media to develop democracy and a multidimensional social system, and establish justice and debate-based social system. A total of 40 television channels, including the state-run TV are operating in the last 15 years and some more channels will soon. Apart from television channels around 1,260 daily newspapers are in the country. Online media like news agencies and portal newspapers are also running reports.
A large number of journalists are now working in the mass media. Had the mast media not exponded the renowned journalists would not get the opportunity to express their ‘talents’.
Therefore, journalists have to play more responsible role in publishing or broadcasting news centring January 7 general election.
