The Secretary General of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ), Quader Gani Chowdhury, emphasised that while the fascists may have fled the country, their roots still persist.
“If we do not completely eradicate fascism, we will not achieve our goals. Allowing fascism to linger is a betrayal of the sacrifices made by hundreds of martyrs,” Chowdhury stated, during a views-exchange meeting titled 'Mass Media and Post-Fascism Bangladesh,' held at the Chittagong Metropolitan Journalist Union office on Saturday, as the chief guest.
Quader Gani Chowdhury expressed his concerns about the brokers of fascism, stating that they attended press conferences held by the former prime minister, showering praise without asking any questions.
He criticized them for exploiting various opportunities, suggesting that these events felt more like receptions than genuine engagements.
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Regarding the Chittagong Press Club, the BFUJ General Secretary asserted the need to rid it of fascist influences. He emphasized that while there is no issue with professional journalists, those who have supported dictatorship by disregarding rules must be held accountable. He warned that the BFUJ would take action if necessary.
Chowdhury reflected on the July-August movement, recalling the tragic deaths of innocent students and declaring that there would be no compromise with agents of fascism. He also mentioned the ongoing quest for justice for the murder of Sagar Runi, promising that those responsible would be prosecuted.
He expressed frustration that the media had failed to address the attack on daily Amar Desh editor Mahmudur Rahman and the suffering of Shafik Rehman.
The meeting concluded with a special prayer for the late BFUJ president, Ruhul Amin Ghazi.