ET Desk: Bangladesh Rural Journalists’ Association (BRJA) has congratulated Tarique Rahman, Chairman of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), on the party’s landslide victory in the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

In a joint statement today (Saturday), Sakhawat Hossain Ibne Moin Chowdhury, Chairman of BRJA, and Secretary General Sheikh Mohammad Tajul Islam also congratulated Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, and Sajib Bhuiyan, Spokesperson of NCP.
The BRJA leaders said that the clear mandate of the people in this historic transition toward democracy will serve as a significant milestone in ensuring constitutional and democratic continuity, establishing good governance, upholding the rule of law, and strengthening the freedom of the press.
They expressed hope that the new government would foster an inclusive and participatory governance system by engaging all political parties, professional organizations, and civil society.
Furthermore, they urged the government to take effective measures to ensure the professional security of journalists, freedom of expression, and the right to information.
The statement added that a united effort from all sectors is essential to building a prosperous, stable, and democratic Bangladesh rooted in justice and human rights.
The BRJA leaders highlighted that during the 17-year-long struggle to establish democracy in Bangladesh, 69 journalists were killed in attacks while performing their professional duties.
The statement urged the government to take immediate, visible, and effective steps to provide financial assistance, rehabilitation, and education and employment opportunities for the children of these martyred journalists.
They emphasized that the contribution of the journalist community in protecting democracy, human rights, and media freedom is undeniable; thus, ensuring their safety and dignity is a moral and constitutional obligation of the state.