Journalists Must Stay Non-Partisan, Uphold Ethics: Rizwana

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Tuesday urged journalists to remain uncompromising on professionalism and ethical standards, stressing that partisan allegiance has no place in responsible journalism.

“Under no circumstances should journalists engage in partisan politics,” she said while addressing the Mass Media Festival 2026 as the chief guest at the Jatiya Press Club in the capital. The event was organised by the July Revolutionary Journalists.

Rizwana expressed disappointment that even after 54 years of independence, Bangladesh has yet to establish a Media Commission or enact a comprehensive Broadcasting Ordinance. She said the absence of these frameworks has long affected media governance and accountability.

“We are making efforts to issue these two ordinances based on the opinions of the government, journalists and all relevant stakeholders. If time constraints prevent their issuance, our goal is at least to prepare the final drafts,” she said.

The adviser added that draft versions of the proposed ordinances have already been uploaded to the websites of the two concerned ministries to gather public feedback, underlining the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusive policymaking.

Calling on journalists to maintain professional dignity, Rizwana urged them to refrain from using derogatory or inflammatory language and to uphold respect and credibility in their reporting. She acknowledged that differences of opinion are natural in journalism but stressed that objectivity must remain the core principle of the profession.

Addressing the programme, Samsi Ara Zaman, mother of martyred journalist Tahir Zaman Priyo, said journalists must be ensured a dignified livelihood and adequate professional facilities so that authoritarian forces cannot exploit their vulnerabilities.

Several senior media leaders and representatives also spoke at the event, including Bangladesh Federal Journalists Union (BFUJ) President Obaidur Rahman Shahin, Jatiya Press Club General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan, Dhaka Journalists Union (DUJ) President Shahidul Islam, Chattogram Press Club General Secretary Golam Mowla Murad, July Revolutionary Journalist Alliance President and Jamuna TV special correspondent Abdullah Tuhin, National Citizen Party (NCP) joint chief coordinator Mahbub Alam, and “Fasibadmukto Somaj Chai” convener Zainal Abedin Shishir.

During the programme, a dedicated hotline (9644111444) was officially inaugurated to provide support and assistance to journalists while performing their professional duties during the upcoming referendum and national elections.

Speakers at the event underscored the need for a free, independent and accountable media as a cornerstone of democracy and good governance.