LGRD and Cooperatives Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir spoke as the chief guest at an Iftar mahfil organized by the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) and the Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ) at the National Press Club today. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Mar 11, 2026 (BSS) - LGRD and Cooperatives Minister and BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called on all stakeholders to act responsibly in safeguarding the freedom of the media in Bangladesh.

He made the call while speaking as the chief guest at an Iftar mahfil organized by the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) and the Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ) at the National Press Club today.

“We talk about the freedom of newspapers and the media. So we must believe in it and work on the basis of that belief,” Fakhrul said.

He noted that a free environment has been created in the country through a long struggle and movement, adding that it is a blessing to be able to gather with journalists again in such an atmosphere.

Fakhrul also expressed gratitude for the support journalists provided during different democratic movements, saying that their cooperation would always be remembered.

He recalled the cordial relationship between the media and BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and offered prayers for the forgiveness of the late leader’s soul.

The BNP Secretary General said a new opportunity has emerged in the country’s political landscape following the formation of a new government based on public support, while the first session of parliament is scheduled to begin tomorrow.

He expressed hope that the new parliament would help institutionalize democracy in the country and become the center of national political activities.

“All those who believe in democracy, liberal democracy and freedom of the media should utilize this opportunity to establish Bangladesh as a democratic and liberal state,” he added.

The pre-iftar discussion was presided over by DUJ President Md. Shahidul Islam and moderated by General Secretary Khurshid Alam.

Among others, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan, Social Welfare Minister Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yeaser Khan Choudhury, Secretary General of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Mia Golam Parwar, BFUJ President Obaidur Rahman Shaheen and Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury spoke at the event.

Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Abu Abdullah M Saleh and Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman were present, along with National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz and General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan.

DUJ Vice President Rashedul Haque, Joint Secretary Didarul Alam Didar and Organizing Secretary Sayeed Khan also attended the programme.