During a programme organised by the Barisal District Administration to mark the Great Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day, Information Minister Md. Zahid Uddin Swapon made a striking observation regarding governance and media accountability.
The minister stated that elements within the administration have, in secret, extended support to mobs. “We have witnessed certain groups attempting to provide encouragement to mob activities. Even from important administrative positions, some individuals covertly patronise such behaviour. As the government in charge, we are aware of all types of reports and information regarding these activities,” he said.
Democracy, Media, and Accountability
Highlighting the essential pillars of democracy, Minister Swapon emphasised the critical role of an independent media. “A country cannot truly sustain democracy if its media is not independent. Media freedom cannot flourish without accountability. It is not enough to merely protest against injustice; we must have a structured plan to build the society we aspire to see,” he explained.
He stressed that addressing issues within the administration is part of ensuring transparency. “If there are such problems within the administration, we will identify them and communicate openly to the nation through the media. Ultimately, accountability to the people is paramount, and preparing Bangladesh for its citizens remains our singular mission.”
Lessons from the National Election
Turning to the recent national election, the minister reflected on the lessons learned. “This election provided us with extensive experience. We observed that, for no justifiable reason, the voting environment was compromised in several instances. We are initiating an investigation into why this occurred, as our future objective remains the conduct of free, fair, and impartial elections at all times,” he noted.
The minister’s remarks underline the government’s dual focus on strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring administrative responsibility, while also highlighting the crucial role of media in fostering transparency.
Key Points at a Glance
| Topic | Observation / Action |
|---|---|
| Mob Support | Certain administrative officials secretly patronising mob activities |
| Democracy | Cannot thrive without independent media and accountability |
| Media Role | Media must hold power to account, not just report events |
| Election Lessons | Investigating reasons for disruption to ensure fair future elections |
| Government Responsibility | Commitment to transparency and citizen-focused governance |
Minister Swapon’s comments, delivered during a solemn occasion commemorating linguistic and national martyrs, serve as a reminder of the intricate balance between governance, media freedom, and citizen oversight, reinforcing that a truly democratic society requires both accountability and proactive societal planning.