Published: 11:19 PM, 17 September 2026
Shibly urges media to verify information thru fact-checking
Prime Minister's Press Secretary AAM Saleh Shibly on Thursday urged media outlets to verify information through fact-checking and raise public awareness about misinformation.
False information, rumors, propaganda and disinformation spread through social media and unregistered online outlets are harming social stability, he said.
He was speaking at a 'Meet the Reporters' programme organised by the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) in Dhaka, BSS reports.
Shibly suggested that television channels broadcast 10-to-15-minute fact-checking programmes daily so people can verify information they encounter throughout the day.
Such initiatives, he said, could increase public awareness and discourage those engaged in spreading misinformation.
On media freedom, Shibly said the government supports freedom of newspapers and media, but freedom does not mean publishing anything.
He said the boundaries of media freedom should be determined by courts in accordance with laws and regulations.
The Press Secretary said the government is working for all citizens and highlighted welfare initiatives, including the Farmer Card and Family Card.
He said agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000, including interest, were waived after the government took office, benefiting more than 12 lakh farmers.
Regarding the measles outbreak, he said vaccine shortages emerged after many children remained outside vaccination coverage for several years.
He said emergency vaccination began in 35 districts in April, followed by a nationwide campaign in May-June that covered more than one crore children with UNICEF assistance.
On the use of "Honourable" before the Prime Minister's name in government documents, Shibly said respect for the offices of the President and Prime Minister is part of Bangladeshi culture. However, using the term in hundreds of files submitted for routine signatures is not logical. Therefore, instructions have been issued to discontinue the practice.
He also urged media organisations to ensure social and economic security and due respect for their employees.
At the event, DRU President Abu Saleh Akon, Vice-President Mehedi Azad Masum and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel, along with other leaders of the organisation and journalists from various media outlets, were present.
