By Mahbub Hasan Tutul, Dhaka
As Bangladesh prepares for its forthcoming national parliamentary elections, a leading press organization has urged the government to guarantee the safety of journalists covering the electoral process.
The founding president of the Bangladesh Central Press Club, Khan Selim Rahman, made the call on Monday, stressing that independent and fearless journalism is vital to the conduct of free, fair and credible elections. He said the protection of journalists is a constitutional responsibility of the state.
In a statement, Rahman described national elections as a sensitive and critical period during which journalists play an essential role by gathering, verifying and disseminating information from polling units and their environs.
According to him, journalists help present an accurate picture of voting conditions, transparency, irregularities, incidents of violence and the conduct of authorities during elections.
Rahman noted that in previous elections, many journalists were subjected to threats, intimidation and obstruction while performing their duties, often due to pressure from political actors or influential groups. Such actions, he warned, undermine democratic values and media freedom.
He explained that when journalists are hindered, the public is deprived of reliable information, increasing the risk of misinformation and casting doubt on the credibility of the electoral process.
The press leader called on law enforcement agencies, the Election Commission, administrative authorities and political parties to ensure that journalists can carry out their responsibilities without interference and with due professionalism and respect.
Rahman also urged the Election Commission to issue clear guidelines on the protection of journalists and ensure strict enforcement at polling stations and surrounding areas, noting that journalist-friendly conduct by security personnel would help prevent unnecessary confrontations.
He said creating a safe working environment for journalists would promote the free flow of information, reduce misinformation and enable voters to make informed choices, thereby strengthening transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.
Rahman reaffirmed that the Bangladesh Central Press Club remains committed to defending journalists’ safety, professional dignity and rights.