Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam Moni on Monday called upon journalists to play a proactive role in protecting and strengthening democracy, saying the media can act as “fighters” in the struggle to uphold democratic values.

“You can play an important role in consolidating democracy in the new and changing circumstances. You can be fighters in the fight to keep democracy alive,” he said, while exchanging views with media representatives at the LD Hall of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.

Four whips – Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu, Miah Nuruddin Ahmad Apu, GK Gouse and Akhtaruzzaman Mia – also spoke at the event.

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The Chief Whip said the country had endured 17 years under authoritarian rule, during which freedom of speech, parliamentary governance and the rule of law were absent.

He said the media should support the government as long as it works for the people, while making constructive criticism when necessary.

“You can stand beside him (the Prime Minister) as long as he continues good work. If I do well, stand by me too. If I do wrong or create problems, then you can make logical criticism and point out my mistakes, because anyone can make mistakes,” Moni said.

Referring to steps taken by the current government, he said despite inheriting a fragile economy, the government, within two months, identified major economic problems and initiated various measures, including implementation of family cards and farmer cards, to address them.

The Chief Whip also criticised the previous government, alleging that an amount equivalent to seven national budgets had been siphoned out of the country.

He recalled the 1974 famine and said late President Ziaur Rahman had restored food self-sufficiency within three years of assuming office. Later, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia made the country self-reliant, steering the country through economic difficulties, he said.

Now, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is following the path shown by his parents, Moni said.

On behalf of media representatives, Bangladesh Parliament Journalists’ Association President Harun Jamil and General Secretary Shawkat Ali Khan spoke at the event.

Journalists covering parliamentary affairs discussed ways to better facilitate their professional duties in the 13th Parliament, while also highlighting key challenges and offering recommendations.