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DHAKA: The people of Bangladesh will not allow past fascist and autocratic forces to engage in politics or terrorism in the country, Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman has said.
He made the remarks as the chief guest at a special general meeting of the Dhaka-based Jhenaidah Journalists’ Forum at the National Press Club on Friday (November 13).
Speaking at around 11:15am, the law minister said those attempting to bring a death-row convict back to Bangladesh through bomb attacks and intimidation had yet to understand the people of the country.
“People of Bangladesh will not allow past fascism and autocracy to return to politics or create opportunities for terrorism in this country,” he said.
He added that several people had already been arrested in connection with the bomb attacks and that the government had information and evidence regarding who was involved and how they were connected to the incidents.
Asaduzzaman said, “We have not followed the path of extrajudicial killings. We have not followed the path of enforced disappearances. We have tried to move away from the practice of filing false cases initiated by the police.”
Calling on the media to highlight these issues, the minister said news outlets should not focus solely on the government’s shortcomings but should also report on its efforts to ensure people’s rights.
However, he stressed that journalists were free to report any negative aspects of the government’s activities.
He acknowledged that bringing about all desired changes overnight was impossible, adding that journalists should continue to report critically on any shortcomings in the government’s performance.
The law minister also urged journalists to stand against irresponsible reporting and yellow journalism to protect the dignity of the profession and maintain public trust.
He said journalists must use their pens in support of truth and against injustice, drugs and corruption. At the same time, they should highlight the government’s positive initiatives.
However, he reiterated that any negative aspects of government activities should also be reported. He added that he would have no objection even if a news report criticised him personally.
