Newly appointed Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaleeve Rahman has pledged to advance the media through cooperation rather than control, stressing the need for credible communication of government activities to the people.
He made the remarks at a view‑exchange meeting with officials of the ministry and its agencies at the Secretariat on his first working day in office on Sunday.
“The responsibility of credibly communicating all government activities to the people is a very big one for us. At the same time, we must keep in mind our relationship with the people and national unity,” he said.
The minister said the ministry also has a duty to uphold cultural and religious values, the spirit of the Liberation War and other sources of national pride.
Calling the present period one of the most difficult in Bangladesh’s history, Andaleeve said the government is making every effort under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership.
“Everyone can make mistakes. But ethically, we are in a strong position,” he said, adding that the government’s directive is to serve the country and advance the people’s interests.
He described the media as a vital pillar of democracy, noting its role in exposing failures, irregularities and repression despite restrictions over the past 17 years.
“There is no way to underestimate the role of the media during the July movement. Their role was important in every respect,” he said, stressing that the ministry’s role should be regulatory, not controlling.
Andaleeve also pointed to ethical decline and structural problems in state institutions over the past 17 years, saying repairing damage to the judiciary, politics, statutory bodies and Parliament will take time.
“We have to concentrate on repairing the damage and developing a new system,” he said.
He urged officials to remain cautious so that no decision causes injustice, while emphasising social values and the spirit of the Liberation War.
Praising the experience of ministry officials, he said government work is a team effort, with political leadership complemented by administrative expertise.
He added that one of their key responsibilities is to properly communicate political decisions to the people while safeguarding their interests.
