The government has decided to form a 'Media Reform Commission' to make the media independent, strong and objective. Senior journalist Kamal Ahmed will serve as the head of this commission. This information was informed by the press wing of the chief adviser on Monday.
Objectives of the Commission
This commission will make recommendations for the necessary reforms of the media and recommend their implementation. A deadline has been set for submission of a full report to the Chief Adviser after gathering the views of all concerned within the next 90 days.
The members of the commission are:
Experienced people from different sectors will serve in this commission. Among them are—
-Dhaka University Professor Gitiara Nasreen.
-Shamsul Haque Zahid, Representative of the Editorial Board and Editor of The Financial Express.
– Nawab's Secretary Akhtar Hossain Khan.
-Atco representative.
– Former General Secretary of National Press Club Syed Abdal Ahmed.
– Chief Executive Officer of Yamuna Television Fahim Ahmed.
– Media Support Network Convener Jimmy Amir.
-The Daily Star correspondent Mustafa Sabuj.
-Titu Dutta Gupta, Deputy Editor, The Business Standard.
-Student representative Abdullah Al Mamun.
Government facilities
The head and members of the commission will get official rank, salary and benefits as determined by the government. But anyone can perform unpaid duties if they want. The commission may include new members as necessary.
Secretarial assistance
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will provide secretarial support to the Commission.
Other Reforms Commission of Govt
Earlier, the government has formed six reform commissions including election, police, judiciary, administration and anti-corruption. At the same time, three other commissions—health, labor rights and women's reform—were named as heads.
By setting up the Media Reform Commission, the government hopes to move towards establishing an independent, responsible and strong media.
