Journalists role is crucial to strengthening rule of law: Information Secretary

Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Mahbuba Farzana, has emphasized the vital role of journalists—particularly legal reporters—in upholding the rule of law and reinforcing public trust in the justice system.

"Investigative journalism stands for the truth, promotes transparency, and plays an important role in increasing public confidence in the judiciary," she said while speaking as the chief guest at a workshop on 'Investigative Journalism' held Sunday (June 29) at the National Media Institute (NIMCO).

The workshop was jointly organised by NIMCO and the Law Reporters Forum, in partnership with the Supreme Court and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with support from the Embassy of Sweden.

Highlighting the crucial role of legal journalism in democratic development, Mahbuba Farzana stated, "The contribution of journalists, especially those covering legal affairs, is immense in strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring accountability."

Supreme Court Registrar General Dr. Aziz Ahmed Bhuiyan delivered the keynote address, outlining progress made in the judicial reform roadmap announced by the Chief Justice. He noted several ongoing initiatives, including the formation of a separate judicial secretariat, reactivation of the Judicial Council, the launch of the Supreme Court Helpline, and progress in enacting legislation for the appointment of judges.

UNDP Bangladesh Assistant Resident Representative Anwarul Haque also addressed the event as a special guest. NIMCO Director General Muhammad Hiruzzaman ndc presided over the session, while NIMCO Assistant Director and Workshop Director Tanjim Tamanna served as the moderator.

The day-long workshop featured interactive sessions on a range of topics, including legal storytelling, protecting sources, interpreting complex laws, promoting judicial transparency, and data-driven reporting techniques.

Notable speakers included UNDP Senior Rule of Law Advisor Romana Schweiger, Dr. Md. Saiful Alam Chowdhury, Associate Professor of Mass Communication and Journalism at the University of Dhaka, Muktadir Rashid, Special Correspondent of Bangla Outlook, and Julhas Alam, Bureau Chief of the Associated Press (AP).

The workshop was attended by members of the Law Reporters Forum, national and international media representatives, UNDP officials, and Supreme Court personnel.