President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday underscored the importance of an independent and responsible media in strengthening democracy, ensuring good governance and building a just society.

He made the remarks while exchanging views with members of the executive committee of Thakurgaon Press Club at his residence during his two-day visit to the district.

The President urged grassroots journalists to faithfully reflect the voices, concerns and aspirations of people particularly those living in rural and marginalised communities.

Thakurgaon journalist leaders raised various issues and demands concerning district-level journalists, including expansion of Thakurgaon Press Club building, more funding for the Journalist Welfare Trust to support local journalists who faced persecution during the Awami League government, and the formation of a Wage Board for journalists.

The President assured them that he would discuss their problems and demands with the authorities concerned and take necessary measures.

He also stressed the importance of unity among journalists.

President Mirza Fakhrul Alamgir said division among journalists is one of the major reasons behind their present difficulties and urged them to overcome their differences.

“Today, there is division everywhere. It is not only in Thakurgaon but also in Dhaka. Such division is not desirable. Opportunists take advantage of it,” he said.

President’s Press Secretary Sarwar Alam, Thakurgaon Press Club President Lutfor Rahman Mithu, General Secretary Tanvir Hasan Tanu, government officials concerned and representatives of the Press Club’s executive committee were present.