Even if an elected govt comes to power, not all problems to be solved automatically: Matiur Rahman

Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman said that the arrival of an elected government in the future will not automatically resolve all of Bangladesh's challenges.

He made these remarks during a media conference jointly organised by the Newspaper Owners Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors Council, held on Saturday morning at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in Khamarbari, Dhaka.

In his address, Matiur Rahman stressed the critical need for journalists to unite, support one another, and demonstrate solidarity across differences.

He cautioned against the misconception that an elected government alone would magically fix everything, noting that such expectations have never materialised in the past and are unlikely to do so in the future.

Drawing from his extensive experience, he pointed out that over the last 55 years, no government—regardless of its nature—has fully refrained from exerting control over the media. 

He recalled particularly severe periods, including the complete shutdown of media in 1975 and widespread repression of journalists under subsequent military and authoritarian regimes.

Matiur Rahman hailed the unity of the journalist community—transcending party lines and personal opinions—as the most significant achievement of the gathering.

He underscored that such solidarity is vital for resisting injustice, oppression, or any threats to press freedom. 

He urged all journalists to remain united and vigilant in safeguarding journalistic independence, professional security, and personal safety.