Published: 12:19 AM, 04 July 2026
Strong media essential for stronger democracy: Mirza Fakhrul
Urging journalists to uphold objectivity and impartiality in reporting, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday said that a strong and independent media is indispensable for strengthening democracy.
He came up with the remarks while addressing a felicitation programme for the newly elected committee of the Thakurgaon Press Club at the Anisul Huq Auditorium in Thakurgaon Press Club.
Mirza Fakhrul said, "A democracy becomes stronger when its media is strong. I urge you all to criticise those who do wrong and appreciate those who do good. One of the key responsibilities of journalism is to identify the shortcomings of politicians and help guide them in the right direction.""The stronger the media in a country, the stronger its democracy.
The success of democracy largely depends on a free, responsible and vibrant press," he added.
Referring to the government's election commitments, the minister said approval had been given for the establishment of two new upazilas in Thakurgaon and the necessary administrative process had already begun.
He, however, stressed that infrastructure development alone would not be sufficient, saying the country also needs competent, honest and responsible leadership to ensure good governance.
Addressing journalists, Mirza Fakhrul urged them to judge people by their work rather than personalities. "Those who perform well deserve appreciation while irregularities and corruption must be exposed through fearless reporting," he said.
Congratulating the newly-elected committee of the Thakurgaon Press Club, he expressed the hope that its members would strengthen public confidence through objective journalism and take the organisation to new heights.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rafiqul Haque, Superintendent of Police Belal Hossain, Thakurgaon district BNP President Mirza Faisal Amin, General Secretary Paygam Ali and journalists from various print and electronic media were present at the programme.
