Daily Jaijaidin Editor Shafik Rehman and Amar Desh Editor Mahmudur Rahman have been elected as the president and general secretary respectively of the National Editors Council (NEC). The interim committee was formed during the council’s first general meeting held at a hotel in Dhaka. Daily Waadaa Editor Shafiqul Alam was elected treasurer of the council.
The meeting saw the approval of the NEC’s constitution with several amendments. Additionally, following a proposal by Daily Jugantor Editor Poet Abdul Hai Sikder, the meeting decided to introduce the ‘Nazrul Award’ for journalism annually.
Shafik Rehman, who chaired the meeting, emphasized the crucial role of journalists in maintaining peace and stability in the country. He called for cooperation to unite editors under a single platform, stating, “To move the country forward democratically, journalists must remain united and work together.”
Mahmudur Rahman highlighted the need to expand the council and increase communication among journalists. He noted, “We want to expand the council further. Communication among journalists should be increased.” This initiative aims to ensure that editors remain united for independent journalism.
Other editors present at the meeting included Naya Diganta Editor Salah Uddin Muhammad Babar, Pratidiner Bangladesh Editor Maruf Kamal Khan, The New Nation Editor Mokarram Hossain, Bangladesh Pratidin Editor Loton Ekram, Bhorer Dak Editor K M Belayet Hossain, Manabkantha Editor Shahidul Islam, Khabar Sangjog Editor Sheikh Nazrul Islam, Bangladesher Khabor Editor Syed Mezbah Uddin, Janata Editor Obaidur Rahman Shaheen, The Bangladesh Post Editor Sadrul Hasan, Banijjo Protidin Editor Gias Uddin, Khola Kagoj Editor Monir Hossain, Rupali Bangladesh Editor Sayem Faruqi, Bhorer Bangla Editor Sheikh Muhammad Arif, and The Global Post Editor Dr Mahbubur Rahman, among others.
The formation of the National Editors Council and the election of its leaders mark an important step towards fostering unity and professional standards in journalism in Bangladesh. The introduction of the ‘Nazrul Award’ is expected to encourage excellence and integrity in the field, contributing to the country’s democratic progress.
