DHAKA, May 11, (V7N) – Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has announced that the government will form an independent Media Commission based on consensus among stakeholders to ensure press freedom and protect citizens’ right to information.

Speaking at the launch of online multimedia news outlet Asia Post on Topkhana Road, Swapon said nothing will be imposed on the media in the name of the commission. Instead, it will be shaped through participation and opinions of all concerned groups. He reaffirmed that the government, under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, remains committed to its electoral pledge of guaranteeing media freedom.

The minister stressed that the commission would not only ensure the free flow of information but also safeguard the public from misinformation. He described the current era as one of rapid technological transformation, noting that while access to information has expanded, the risks of fake news and misinformation have also grown.

Swapon said the Ministry of Information is drafting new strategies to address emerging challenges, particularly those linked to Artificial Intelligence. He urged new media outlets to act responsibly in protecting digital audiences. Welcoming the launch of Asia Post, he expressed hope that the outlet would remain vigilant against misinformation and meet the expectations of modern journalism.

The event was moderated by Asia Post Editor Palash Mahmud. Later, the minister formally inaugurated the outlet by cutting a cake and visiting its office sections, marking the entry of Bangladesh’s media landscape into a more complex and digitally integrated phase.

END/AJ/RH/