BNP pledges to form commission to safeguard press freedom: Amir Khasru

BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that the party will form a commission to guarantee media freedom and provide journalists with a free working environment if it assumes power.

He made the promise while speaking at a seminar titled “Journalism During the Fascist Era and the Current Situation” at the Dhaka Reporters Unity on Saturday (August 23).

Amir Khasru criticized the Awami League government for undermining journalism over the past 15 years. "Many journalists have been forced to leave the country or change professions due to restricted press freedom during AL regime," he said.

"Under the Awami League government, democratic institutions such as the judiciary, Election Commission, and parliament were weakened, while press freedom was curtailed," he said. "The distinction between media management and journalists has been eroded, bringing the press under tight control."

"After the potential fall of Sheikh Hasina, new public expectations have emerged, which political parties must address," he added.

He stressed that democracy cannot function effectively unless the economy, politics, and media operate independently and transparently.