The Bangladesh Parliament Journalists Association calling out restrictions placed on the media during the oath-taking ceremony of the 13th National Parliament is understandable. That for the first time in our parliamentary history, accredited journalists were denied access to a moment that symbolizes the renewal of democratic practice, is a cause for concern. 

To say that this is not a good sign for the future would be an understatement.

Any Parliament is the people’s house, and it is the media that bridges that connection between citizens and its proceedings. To restrict journalists from covering such a historic event is thus to weaken that bridge and risk creating distance between the government and the people.

This is a distance that was ever-present during the tenure of the Awami League, and over time undermines the transparency that is essential for democratic legitimacy. This is a mistake that we truly wish the new government does not repeat.

Indeed, let it be stated time and time again that the media is not a threat to democratic ideals but its lifeblood. As such, the newly elected BNP government must recognize this truth. 

Having come to power through what has been widely described as among the most free and fair elections our nation has ever seen, it now bears the responsibility of ensuring that democratic norms are strengthened, not eroded. 

As such, working with the media, empowering them to report freely, and guaranteeing access to government institutions ought to be how any government with democratic aspirations operates. 

A government confident in its mandate should welcome scrutiny, not shy away from it. Restricting journalists at the very outset of a new parliament risks setting a precedent that could over time once again erode public trust -- trust that the people have placed in this administration. Our future depends on a vibrant, empowered press that can hold power to account.