Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today stressed that journalists must uphold professionalism at all times and avoid any form of political alignment.
She made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the “Mass Media Festival 2026,” organized by the July Revolutionary Journalists at the Jatiya Press Club.
“Journalists should never allow partisan interests to influence their work,” she said, emphasizing that professional neutrality is essential for credible journalism.
Rizwana expressed dissatisfaction that even 54 years after independence, Bangladesh has yet to establish a Media Commission or enact a Broadcasting Ordinance. She said initiatives are underway to formulate both ordinances through consultations with the government, journalists, and other stakeholders.
“If time constraints prevent final enactment, our goal at least is to complete and finalize the draft versions,” she added.
The adviser noted that the draft ordinances have already been uploaded to the websites of the relevant ministries to gather public feedback.
She also urged media professionals to avoid the use of offensive language and called on them to strengthen their standing in society by maintaining ethical standards and professional respect.
Acknowledging the existence of differing viewpoints within the media community, Rizwana said objectivity must remain the cornerstone of journalism.
Speaking at the event, Samsi Ara Zaman, mother of slain journalist Tahir Zaman Priyo, emphasized the need to ensure journalists a dignified livelihood and adequate institutional support to prevent exploitation under authoritarian conditions.
Among others, Bangladesh Federal Journalists Union (BFUJ) President Obaidur Rahman Shahin, Jatiya Press Club General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan, Dhaka Journalists Union (DUJ) President Shahidul Islam, Chattogram Press Club General Secretary Golam Mowla Murad, July Revolutionary Journalist Alliance President and Jamuna TV special correspondent Abdullah Tuhin, National Citizen Party (NCP) Joint Chief Coordinator Mahbub Alam, and “Fasibadmukto Somaj Chai” convener Zainal Abedin Shishir addressed the gathering.
At the programme, a dedicated hotline—9644111444—was officially launched to assist journalists in carrying out their professional duties during the forthcoming referendum and elections.
