Calling a free press essential for democracy, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon says he sees himself as a “guardian of the media”, responsible for ensuring journalists can work independently and without intimidation. “I am responsible, as the minister of information, for presenting all government plans before the nation. “No plan can be implemented if the media are not allowed to work freely and peacefully. It is my duty to act as the guardian of the media.”The minister said democracy cannot function without a free press. “A country’s democracy cannot operate if there is no independent media.

Source: bd News24 February 21, 2026 12:57 UTC