Dhaka, Sep 04 (V7N) – Journalists have raised objections to the Election Commission’s (EC) Media Policy-2025, submitting a written proposal for amendments to ensure press freedom during the upcoming national elections.

The issue was discussed at a meeting between the Reporters Forum for Elections and Democracy (RFED) and the EC on Thursday at the Election Commission building. Journalists argued that the policy undermines independent journalism and imposes restrictions that could hamper the collection of election-related news.

RFED President Kazi Jebel and General Secretary Golam Rabbani noted that the policy limits media workers’ freedom, restricts access to polling stations, and impedes timely reporting. They particularly highlighted restrictions on photography, mandatory prior approval from presiding officers, limits on multiple journalists entering the same station, and the maximum 10-minute stay at polling locations as unreasonable constraints.

Responding to the concerns, Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Machud acknowledged the issue, stating that the EC and media must work together to overcome a “national crisis of trust.” He assured journalists that the commission will take necessary measures to facilitate their free movement and reporting, aiming to ensure fair elections.

The journalists had earlier expressed their concerns in a joint statement on July 27, rejecting the Media Policy-2025 for potentially obstructing citizen access to election information and hampering independent news gathering.

END/SMA/AJ