Senior journalist and political analyst Mohammad Shariful Alam Chowdhury has said that the true essence of journalism lies in holding those in power accountable through critical and constructive scrutiny of their actions.
He made the remarks while addressing a journalists’ training workshop organized by the Dinajpur District Administration and World Vision Bangladesh at the Dinajpur Municipal Auditorium on Sunday (August 2).
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Speaking at the event, Shariful Alam Chowdhury said, “The courage to speak the truth is the foundation of journalism. Today’s media desperately needs honest, objective, and impartial reporting, which is becoming increasingly rare in Bangladesh.”
Highlighting the challenges facing the profession, he said that partisan journalism, yellow journalism, unethical practices, and misinformation are undermining the credibility and dignity of the media.
“Journalism driven by personal or political interests can never serve the public. There can be no compromise when it comes to objectivity and professional ethics,” he added.
He further emphasized that a truly independent media outlet should not be accountable to any political party, government, pressure group, or agency. “The only accountability of journalists is to the people. Their responsibility is to protect public interest and present the truth without fear or favor,” he said.
Commenting on the current state of Bangladesh’s media, Shariful Alam Chowdhury noted that political influence over the years has weakened independent journalism and created a growing disconnect between the media and the public.
He stressed that journalists must ask tough questions, especially to those in power, because democracy cannot function without accountability.
Concluding his speech, he warned that “When the media loses its independence, it is ultimately the people who suffer. A strong, fearless, and responsible press is indispensable for protecting democracy and ensuring good governance.”
