The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Speakers at a discussion emphasised the need of a fair and proper role of the mass media during the upcoming polls to help the voters by giving accurate information to elect a good candidate.

They said mass media is the best means for reaching the masses in a very short time. Journalists should play a role to bring out the whereabouts of the participants.

Manobadhiker O Paribesh Sangbadik Society (MAPSAS), organized the discussion meeting on "The Roles of Mass Media in the Forthcoming Polls" at the National Press Club, in the city. Adviser of the MAPSAS, Bidyut Chowdhury presided over the meeting.

Jaglul Ahmed Chowdhury, Chief Editor of BSS said mass media should play the optimum role to make the polls successful. It should not play any role that could cause suffering for the people.

The candidates during election campaign promise many things, the journalists must make them implement their promises, he further said.

Terming mass media as a watchdog of democracy Justice Habibur Rahman Khan, Chairman of the Truth Commission called upon the journalists not to be frightened by the muscle power or any kind of threats and pressures.

AHM Noman, in his keynote paper said mass media could motivate the people to elect a good candidate, if the political party nominates honest people.

Nava Mehjabeen Rahman, teacher of the Stamford University gave importance on the neutral role of mass media for the establishment of democracy in the country.