We are less than a month removed from the heinous attack on the offices of the Daily Star and Prothom Alo, and this is as good a reminder as any that when it comes to the health of any nation, especially one with democratic aspirations, allowing the media to do its job is of paramount importance. 

Indeed, during the election season in particular, but also at all times, the press must be allowed to perform its duty -- without intimidation, censorship, or undue interference.

This responsibility also extends to the owners of these establishments, which is where we wholeheartedly agree with Nurul Kabir, President of the Editors’ Council and Mahfuz Anam, Editor of the Daily Star when they spoke at the first Media Convention held yesterday. 

Both men rightfully remarked that an attempt to turn the media into a purely business-driven industry would ultimately destroy public trust and democratic values, and that without collective courage and solidarity within the media itself, it was impossible to defend freedom of expression against increasingly difficult challenges. 

However, ultimately, it is the state that must also create the environment for the media to thrive and hold those in power accountable. In Bangladesh’s history, we have unfortunately repeatedly seen an environment of intimidation and repression when it comes to the media - one that, with the elections and a newly elected government, we must finally begin to turn around.

It bears repeating that the media, when allowed to do its job, will always be an asset to any state and any society. If Bangladesh is truly serious about establishing democratic ideals, then it must start by empowering the press.