The government that truly believes in independent journalism is the one that benefits the most, said Mahfuz Anam, editor and publisher of The Daily Star.
He made the remark on Saturday morning at “Media Convention 2026” programme organised jointly by the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and the Editors’ Council, held at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in the capital’s Khamarbari.
The media convention was organised to protest attacks on freedom of expression and democratic values. The event began around 10:15am, with the national anthem, followed by a documentary highlighting the convention’s objectives.
There are very few people within the government who speak the truth. Party affiliates, the bureaucracy, or intelligence agencies often do not present the real picture, Mahfuz Anam said. “Independent journalism is the only institution that can tell the truth to the government,” he said.
He further explained that independent journalism can provide answers as to whether government projects and programmes are being implemented correctly, whether the public is accepting them, or if corruption is taking place.
Describing the role of journalism, Mahfuz Anam said that while many professions serve society, the very existence of journalism is social service. It encompasses democracy, human rights, the removal of inequality, and the protection of the rights of people from all religions and groups.
“Democracy is the core principle of journalism,” he said.
He added that only two professions are granted direct constitutional protection — an independent judiciary and the independent media. A society where independent journalism is strong becomes democratic, inequality decreases, and the rights of the people are established.
Addressing the journalists, he said it is essential to maintain honesty, dedication, and the fundamental ethical values of independent journalism in personal, social, and professional life. If journalists deviate from these values, society will no longer place its trust in them, he added.
Regarding editorial responsibility, The Daily Star editor said, every action and decision of those tasked with being editors is not merely personal but affects the institution and the entire profession. “Editorial responsibility is a full professional duty,” he said.
Speaking to media owners, he thanked them for investing in newspapers and the media. However, he cautioned that public trust cannot be achieved if the mindset of investing in other industrial sectors is applied to the media.
“Journalists are the social doctors,” he said, adding, “Just as a physician diagnoses a patient’s illness, a journalist highlights the limitations and failures of society, as well as flaws in the governance system. We do this because we love our society and our country.”
“An independent judiciary and independent journalism are complementary to each other,” he continued.
Referring to contempt of court as a powerful weapon, he said this weapon should not be misused. He noted that writing about the judiciary does not amount to contempt; rather, the objective is to ensure accountability.
About the budget, he said the money does not belong to the government; it is the money of taxpayers and the people. While the government deserves support in democratic and public‑interest projects, it is also the duty of journalists to expose any project that turns into a centre of corruption.
In conclusion, Mahfuz Anam said that just as the July uprising has created an opportunity to reestablish democracy, it has also opened the door to establish an ethical, righteous, and democratic trend in journalism. He urged everyone to work together to earn the trust of the people.
