President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday described the media as democracy’s main strength, saying protecting the media is essential to protecting democracy.

“The media must play a responsible role in upholding the country’s independence, sovereignty and good governance while remaining on the right track,” he said when a delegation of the Jatiya Press Club (JPC) Management Committee, led by its President Hasan Hafiz and General Secretary Aiyub Bhuiyan, paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban.

Recalling his long-standing relationship with the JPC, the President said, “My relationship with the press club is not merely political; it is a long-standing spiritual bond. You stood by me during my most difficult times, which is a great achievement for me.”

He said democracy is a culture and must be institutionalised through a positive change in mindset.

“We have to come out of the old authoritarian mindset and embrace democratic values. Even after bringing about change through a movement, genuine change will not be possible if the old mentality remains,” Mirza Fakhrul said.

He said the elected government should be given sufficient time to work, urging the media to appropriately highlight the energy crisis caused by global factors, including the ongoing wars in the Middle East.

The President assured the delegation of extending all-out cooperation for the welfare of journalists.

He stressed the need to reopen newspapers that have been shut down to address the employment crisis among journalists. “If the closed newspapers, especially those under trusts, can be reopened, it will create employment opportunities for at least 1,000 journalists,” he said.

Mirza Fakhrul also called for unity among journalists, saying, “Unity among the journalist community is extremely important. Division can never bring success. If you can unite on fundamental issues, you will be able to establish effective relations with both the government and the opposition.”

He urged journalists to take united and effective measures to ensure their protection and prevent irregularities and mass layoffs in the media sector.

The President said a truly democratic government assumed office after a long time and the media’s responsibility has consequently increased.

He said the media should objectively highlight the government’s mistakes and shortcomings while also bringing its good initiatives and achievements before the people.

Recalling the long-standing tradition of the JPC, Mirza Fakhrul remembered the contributions of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to the development of the institution.

He stressed effective communication and coordination with the government leadership for the welfare and development of the press club and journalists.

JPC President Hasan Hafiz conveyed greetings and congratulations to the President on behalf of the institution and invited him to visit the press club at his convenience.

General Secretary Aiyub Bhuiyan recalled his past memories with Mirza Fakhrul, saying, “You were like a member of our family at the press club. We are proud and delighted that one of our own has assumed the office of President.”

JPC member Syed Abdal Ahmed also recalled his past memories with the President and remembered his sacrifices and contributions to protecting democracy.

Muhammed Kader Gani Chowdhury highlighted the practice of yellow journalism during the previous period and sought the President’s cooperation in maintaining a responsible media environment.

He also sought cooperation from the government and the President for the swift implementation of the 10th Wage Board for the welfare of the media and journalists.

When the journalist leaders sought the President’s cooperation in expanding the JPC’s infrastructure, he assured them of his support.

The JPC delegation also included Bakhtiar Rana, Kazi Rawnak Hossain, Shahnaz Begum Poly, Mohammad Momin Hossain, Abdul Hye Sikder, Masumur Rahman Khalili, AKM Mohsin and Zahidul Islam Rony.

The President’s Military Secretary, Secretary and Press Secretary, among other senior officials, were present during the meeting.