PM meets NOAB members

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has met with members of the Newspaper Owners' Association of Bangladesh (NOAB).

The meeting was held at the Public Administration conference room of the Cabinet Division at the Secretariat on Tuesday, April 21.

The Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary Zahidul Islam Roni confirmed the matter.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has assured media representatives of a positive stance on several issues, including the current crisis in the newspaper industry, economic pressures, press freedom, and cases filed against journalists. He listened attentively to the problems of the media sector and expressed agreement on several demands.

The meeting was attended by NOAB President and Chief Editor of the Daily Manabzamin, Matiur Rahman Chowdhury; Editor and Publisher of Prothom Alo, Matiur Rahman; Editor and Publisher of The Daily Star, Mahfuz Anam; former NOAB President and Managing Director of Times Media Limited (publisher of Samakal), A K Azad; Editor and Publisher of the Daily Bonik Barta, Dewan Hanif Mahmud; and Editor of Inkilab, A M M Bahauddin, among others. Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan and Prime Minister's Policy and Strategy Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman were also present.

After the meeting, NOAB President Matiur Rahman Chowdhury said the newspaper industry is currently facing various crises, including economic pressure. The Prime Minister listened sincerely and agreed to several demands, though he noted that implementing some matters may take time.

Regarding press freedom, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said he would not follow the path of previous governments and wants to move forward with liberal democracy. NOAB President viewed this stance positively.

The issue of cases against arrested journalists was also discussed. The Prime Minister said it would be examined whether anyone is imprisoned or harassed without cause. A request was also made for effective measures to clear outstanding bills.

Discussions were also held on implementing the Wage Board Award, the NOAB President said.

A decision was also made on regular dialogue. During Sheikh Hasina's regime, there was one meeting, and during the interim government, one meeting was held with editors and owners. However, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has informed that he will meet with editors every three months.