Media Reform Commission Leader Says
None of Its Proposals Have Been Put Into Action, Expresses Frustration
The chair of the Media Reform Commission appointed by the interim government has publicly voiced deep frustration and disappointment, revealing that none of the commission’s recommendations have been enacted even nine months after they were submitted.
Addressing the sixth broadcast journalism conference at a major language institute in Dhaka on Saturday, he said he could not point to a single proposal that has been implemented so far and expressed regret over the lack of progress.
In his speech, he acknowledged that while the information and broadcasting adviser could not be blamed directly, the interim government bears responsibility for the inaction, stating that despite assurances, efforts to implement recommendations have stalled.
He recalled that on 22 March, the commission submitted its full report to the interim government’s chief adviser and was asked to provide a list of urgent proposals. That list was prepared and submitted within 24 hours. Although he has been told that instructions were issued for implementation, no concrete steps have been taken.
According to him, officials within the ministry of information have focused on circulating the report among various departments and agencies to gather opinions, resulting in conflicting responses that concluded the proposals cannot be implemented. One key recommendation — to merge the state television, radio, and national news agency into an autonomous entity — has also not been pursued by authorities.
He noted that two advisory committees were formed with government advisers, but neither produced results, leaving the commission increasingly concerned about the lack of action. Highlighting the limited time remaining, he said this has fueled frustration and anger among those working on media reform.
The event also featured speeches from prominent media professionals, lawyers, and journalists, who discussed broader challenges in the media sector and urged for meaningful reform and support for press freedom.
