In Bangladesh, editors and media leaders have stressed that independent journalism remains the only institution capable of telling governments the truth, warning that attacks on the media threaten democracy and fundamental freedoms.
Speaking at the Media Convention 2026 in Dhaka, The Daily Star editor Mahfuz Anam said governments often remain surrounded by praise from party members, bureaucracy and intelligence agencies, while only independent journalism exposes corruption, policy failures and public discontent.
He said a government that genuinely believes in free and liberal journalism ultimately benefits the most.
Referring to public spending and development projects, Anam said journalists have a duty to question whether projects serve people’s interests or become centres of corruption, stressing that public money belongs to taxpayers, not those in power.
He called for accountable governance and ethical, courageous journalism in the post-July uprising period.
Prothom Alo editor Matiur Rahman underscored the need for unity among journalists, saying divisions weaken the profession and make it vulnerable to repression.
Recalling decades of media restrictions under different regimes, he said solidarity, compromise and mutual support are essential at a critical time.
Editors’ Council president and New Age editor Nurul Kabir strongly condemned recent attacks on Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, describing arson and obstruction of fire services as “medieval barbarity” rather than expressions of anger.
He warned that such attacks threaten all media outlets, regardless of editorial stance.
The convention, jointly organised by the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors’ Council, was held to protest organised attacks on freedom of expression and reaffirm a united commitment to independent, responsible and ethical journalism.
