Those behind bomb attacks to bring back a death-row convict have yet to understand Bangladeshis: Asaduzzaman

Law Minister Asaduzzaman today (13 November) said those trying to bring a death-row convict back to Bangladesh through bomb attacks and intimidation have yet to understand the people of this country.

“The people of Bangladesh will not again give fascism and autocracy any opening in politics or any scope for terrorism,” he said while speaking as the chief guest at a special general meeting of the Dhaka-based Jhenaidah Journalists Forum at the National Press Club this morning.

The minister said many people involved in bomb attacks and terrorist activities have already been arrested.

The government has obtained information and data on who is involved in these activities and how, he said, adding that the people of the country can also see who has chosen the path of terror.

Highlighting the responsibilities of journalists and the role of the media, Asaduzzaman said, “The media has reached a position of public trust. When people are harassed and get no redress anywhere, they turn to the media. Journalists must hold on to this trust. At the same time, they must speak out against unethical journalism.

“They must play a responsible role in this regard for the sake of their own honour and dignity and the interests of the next generation. The government will provide support if needed. Journalists must take up their pens for truth and justice and against injustice, drugs and corruption,” he added.

Claiming that no extrajudicial killings or enforced disappearances had taken place in the country in nearly nine months, the minister said the government was also trying to end the practice of police filing false cases as plaintiffs.

Calling on the media to highlight the government’s positive initiatives to ensure people’s rights, he said it was not possible to change everything overnight.

“We want to move forward on the right path based on accurate information. To that end, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working with a firm resolve to build the country. The government is on the ground against all evil forces,” he added.

Stressing organisational unity in the forum, the minister said journalists should remain united out of attachment to their roots, despite differences in political views, paths and ideologies. Obstructing the organisation’s programmes over questions of leadership or authority would be a self-destructive decision, he said, urging everyone to set aside differences and work together to take the forum forward.

Rashed Khan, special assistant (political) to the prime minister, was present as a special guest.