CHITTAGONG,  5 August (,CTG MAIL )

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has urged journalists to uphold their role as the voice of the people rather than aligning with any political party, including the BNP.

“Don’t become BNP’s journalists. You don’t need to be. Be journalists of this country, of the people of Bangladesh,” said Khasru, addressing a rally at the Chattogram Press Club premises on Tuesday afternoon. “That is the vow of a new Bangladesh,” he added.

He sharply criticized those who, in the name of journalism, support autocratic regimes. “Those who stand for autocracy under the guise of journalism are not true journalists. Standing in front of the Press Club and backing one person or one party is not journalism. That’s political activism,” Khasru said.

He called on the media community to reflect on these distinctions and ensure they do not fall into partisan practices. “We must not follow their path,” he cautioned.

The comments were made during the closing ceremony of a weeklong event marking the anniversary of the July-August mass uprising, organized by the Chattogram Press Club. The event, titled Sangbadik-Chhatro-Janotar Somabesh (Journalist-Student-People’s Rally), brought together political leaders, media professionals, and cultural figures.

Prior to the rally, Khasru visited a photo exhibition titled Cameray July Biplob (The July Revolution Through the Lens), showcasing key moments of the July movement.

The program featured musical performances highlighting the spirit of the 2024 July Uprising, followed by speeches from key BNP leaders.

Chattogram Press Club Member Secretary Zahidul Karim Kochi presided over the event. It was moderated by Boishakhi TV Bureau Chief Golam Maula Murad and journalist Mia Mohammad Arif. Special guests included former Chattogram BNP General Secretary Abul Hashem Bakkar and former South District BNP Convener Abu Sufian.