Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has urged journalists to play a responsible and professional role in ensuring accountability and helping fulfill the aspirations of the people.
He made the remarks as the chief guest at a reception organized by Bagerhat Press Club on Monday (August 17) at noon.
Addressing journalists, the minister said, “Businesspeople develop through money, while journalists develop through investigation, responsibility and patriotism.” He said the purpose of journalism was to ensure that the government and relevant authorities remain accountable and work to fulfill people’s expectations.
Sheikh Rabiul Alam said journalists often have to work under risk and therefore deserve a dignified and financially secure life. However, he warned that excessive pursuit of wealth could undermine the fundamental objectives of journalism.

“Do not see things with ordinary eyes like mine; see them through a microscope,” he told journalists, urging them to identify irregularities, shortcomings and mistakes through investigative reporting.
At the same time, he cautioned journalists against criticizing issues merely to increase views if such reporting could mislead the public.

“The government will try to change the country, and journalists will also contribute to that change through their pens,” he said. He stressed that such change must be based on people’s aspirations and the broader interests of the state.
The minister said the government wants to correct its shortcomings and expects journalists to play a responsible role in that process. “We want to move forward toward progress by working hand in hand,” he added.

Speaking about development in the southern region, Sheikh Rabiul Alam said the government would take necessary initiatives for the development of the area. He also emphasized the need to ensure professional development and a safe working environment for journalists.

The reception was chaired by Bagerhat Press Club President Abu Sayeed Shunu. Among those present were Bagerhat-2 lawmaker Sheikh Manzurul Haque Rahad, District Council Administrator Barrister Sheikh Md. Zakir Hossain, Bagerhat District BNP Convener Engineer ATM Akram Hossain Talim, press club members and journalists from various media outlets.
The Bagerhat Press Club formally honored Sheikh Rabiul Alam at the event.

SM/CitizenTimes