Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon addressed the inaugural ceremony of the news outlet “Asia Post” at its office on Topkhana Road in the capital today. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 11, 2026 (BSS)- Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said the government will constitute an effective and independent Media Commission based on consensus among stakeholders to ensure freedom of the press in the country.

“Nothing will be imposed on media in the name of the commission, rather, it will be implemented through the participation and opinions of all concerned stakeholders, ensuring people’s right to information,” he said.

The minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of online and multimedia-based news outlet “Asia Post” at its office at Topkhana Road in city today.

Swapon said the present government, under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, had pledged before the election to ensure media freedom, and remains committed to implementing that promise.

“As part of fulfilling that commitment, we are continuously holding discussions with stakeholders since assuming office. We want to establish a commission that will ensure the free flow of information as well as protecting people from misinformation,” he said.

Describing the current era as a time of transformation, the minister said the whole world has entered a new phase driven by rapid technological change.

“Many from the older generation are struggling to keep pace with the speed of this digital age. Maintaining the flow of accurate information is now one of the main responsibilities of the media,” he said.

The minister warned that while the scope of free information flow has expanded, opportunities for spreading misinformation and fake news have also increased.

“Protecting digital viewers from misinformation has now become a major challenge,” he added.

Swapon said the Ministry of Information is formulating new strategies to address emerging challenges, particularly those created by Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this regard, he urged newly established media outlets to play a cautious and responsible role.

Welcoming the launch of “Asia Post”, the minister said the country is entering a highly modern and complex media landscape through the integration of online and multimedia journalism.

“I hope this organisation will remain vigilant in protecting people from misinformation and fulfilling new expectations,” he said.

Asia Post Editor Palash Mahmud moderated the event.

Later, the minister formally inaugurated ‘Asia Post’ by cutting a cake and visited different sections of the office.