Media can't play due role until democracy is restored: Khasru

BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said delays in holding a free and fair national election to restore democracy will further deepen the ongoing crisis in the country.

"We want to bring back democratic order in Bangladesh through a fair and impartial election. The longer this process is, the deeper our crisis will be", he said.

The BNP leader came up with the remarks while speaking at the 30th founding anniversary celebration programme of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) on its premises in the capital on Monday.

Until democracy is restored the media cannot play their due role. No reforms can give what the restoration of democracy can offer and ensure, he added, calling for unity in the journey of restoring democratic order.

Amir Khasru said, "No matter whoever is in power undemocratically, at some point they want to put the media under pressure to survive and continue in power. We have to admit this. Therefore, our unity will be in favour of democracy. United efforts are needed to regain democratic, constitutional and political rights, which also include media freedom. There is no alternative to this."

The role of the media is very important for ensuring accountability of a government, he added, saying that although the media does not directly hold the government accountable, it acts as an important accountability platform, just like the elected parliament.

He urged all to work for the prosperity of Bangladesh and restoration of democratic order as soon as possible. With the cooperation of the media and the united efforts of the people, we can reach that goal.

He mentioned that Dhaka Reporters Unity played an important role despite the harsh repression of the previous government. He said the media will not get freedom until democracy is re-established in Bangladesh, because undemocratic rulers suppress and put the media under pressure.

Dhaka Reporters Unity President Abu Saleh Akon, Vice President Gazi Anwar, General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel and other senior leaders of the organiaation were present at the event.

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