Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman on Sunday said the fascist regime was a difficult time for the media, hoping that it would end in the future.
During the fascist era, he said, the country witnessed heinous incidents like several journalists going to jail in false cases, while freedom of the media was directly hindered by changing the ownership of newspapers and changing editors.
Noting that the BNP regime was comparatively more lenient for the media, Matiur Rahman said BNP is the largest party in the country at the moment.
“They also have a big responsibility to ensure the freedom of the media,” he added.
The Prothom Alo editor made the remarks while speaking at a view-exchange meeting at a city hotel on Sunday afternoon.
On the occasion of the historic homecoming of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, BNP held this view-exchange meeting with editors of daily newspapers and online news portals, news heads of radio and television and media personalities.
Matiur Rahman said he believes that those who have stood by them, regardless of party or opinion, in the attacks on the country’s media will continue to stand by media.
Referring to a survey conducted by Prothom Alo on the election, he said: “So far, BNP is the largest party in Bangladesh, it is recognised.”
“We believe that the survey is fairly close to the truth or close to the people’s thought. BNP has come out as the largest party there. They will win the election by getting a lot of votes. We want to believe it, or we may think that they are coming to power,” he said.
As the future ruling party, the Prothom Alo editor expected modesty from the BNP leaders and activists.
Matiur Rahman said he believes that the solidarity that has been seen in the recent attacks on the media, regardless of party or opinion, will continue in the future.
