Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said on Monday that independent media serves as the primary tool for ensuring accountability within a democratic state system.
He remarked that the responsibility of a government elected by the people is to remain accountable to them, and a strong, independent media reinforces that path of accountability.
The minister was speaking as the chief guest at induction ceremony of Jahangirnagar University Journalists’ Association (JUJA) new committee, held at the university’s Senate Bhaban.
Minister Swapon noted that the current government, having taken office through a direct popular vote, is constantly striving to ensure accountability to the public.
Highlighting the nature of the vocation, he said that journalism is not merely a profession but is intrinsically linked to patriotism, humanity, and social responsibility.
The minister observed that many enter this field out of a sense of duty to society rather than for financial gain, and he congratulated the young journalists for choosing such a challenging and significant career.
He cautioned that the media should never be transformed into a propaganda machine for any industrial group or vested interests.
Minister Swapon asserted that a journalist’s duty is to speak on behalf of the people, rather than acting as a Public Relations Officer (PRO) for any individual or group. “Journalism is a noble profession, the sole beneficiary of which should be the people,” he said.
Addressing the history of industry, he mentioned the need for research into how the country’s media has, at times, been used against the public interest and how journalistic standards have been compromised.
Minister Swapon urged journalists to evaluate their own roles in this regard.
He emphasised that professional identity does not grant immunity regarding the rule of law.
Swapon said that while no journalist should fall victim to injustice, anyone committing a crime under the guise of journalism must be brought to justice.
He expressed his hope that the creative thinking and critical perspectives of the youth would further strengthen the media in the future.
The ceremony was attended by the outgoing and incoming members of the Jahangirnagar University Journalists’ Association, alongside officials from the university administration.
