DCs directed to appoint focal persons to facilitate information for journalists

District commissioners have been instructed to appoint focal persons to make it easier for journalists to access information at the field level. Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farzana disclosed this on Wednesday, May 6.

Speaking to journalists after the fourth day's session of the DC Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital, she said the initiative aims to reduce the bureaucratic complexities journalists often face in obtaining information at the district level.

The secretary said each district will have a designated officer serving as the focal person, who will maintain direct communication with journalists and provide necessary information. This will increase transparency and speed in news dissemination.

Regarding the reluctance of many focal persons to speak on television, Farzana said not everyone feels comfortable appearing on camera, which is natural. She also noted that there are specific rules for speaking on television, requiring proper permission, and in many cases, providing written statements or information would be more effective.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said it is natural for officials at various levels under the ministry to provide information. He noted that the concept of 'press' has now transformed into a broader form of mass communication, encompassing broadcast, telecommunications and social media.

The minister acknowledged a gap between the needs of the media and the government's readiness but said the government is working to bridge this gap and build a modern information management system.

Prime Minister's Information Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman and Chief Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed were also present at the briefing.