President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday urged television journalists to perform their duties with professionalism after maintaining public trust, contribute to nation-building and protect the public interest from their respective positions.
He made the call when a delegation of the Broadcast Journalists Center (BJC) paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban in the afternoon.
During the meeting, they discussed the current state of broadcast journalism and the media in Bangladesh, the professional development of journalists and the responsible role of the media.
Recalling the media’s active role during the long struggle for restoration of democracy, Mirza Fakhrul sought their cooperation in institutionalising democracy in the country.
He expressed gratitude to journalists for standing beside the people during difficult times in the struggle.
Recalling his interactions with journalists, the President said, “I have received your companionship, support and love.”
Referring to the repression and persecution of media professionals during the fascist rule, he said, “I stood by you and I will always stand by you.”
Mirza Fakhrul said Bangladesh could have progressed like developed countries if political vendetta had been replaced by democratic practices and political and economic stability had been ensured.
He urged all concerned to avoid narrow political interests to realise the golden opportunity created to build a new Bangladesh after a prolonged struggle and bloodshed.
Turning to television channels, the President said simply increasing their number will not be enough. “Their quality must also be maintained.”
He stressed the need to address the problems facing the media through the Media Reform Commission.
Mirza Fakhrul also urged policymakers to look at problems from a broader perspective, with a long-term vision and foresight, and take appropriate measures to resolve them.
He emphasised collective efforts to make television channels sustainable through digitalisation and self-reliance.
The BJC leaders said their organisation primarily works for the welfare of journalists. It provides training to improve the professional standards of broadcast journalists and offers various facilities, including healthcare and insurance.
The President assured them of his cooperation in their welfare activities and suggested that they undertake programmes aimed at increasing their income.
The BJC delegation included Fahim Ahmed, Ilias Hossain, Talat Mamun, Mahmud Hasan, Shariful Islam Khan, Shah Azizur Rahman Kiran, Zamanul Ferdous Manu, Belayet Hossain, Naila Parvin Pia and Saiful Shakil.
The President’s secretary, press secretary and assistant military secretary were also present.