Paragraph 1: A Call for a Responsible and Accountable Press in Challenging Times
In a moment when public trust hinges on transparent communication and reliable information, the Prime Minister’s Press Secretary, AAM Saleh Shibly, has extended a thoughtful and urgent invitation to the media to step into a more meaningful role. Speaking at a press briefing held at the Karabi Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office, Shibly used the occasion of the government’s seven months in office not only to reflect on achievements but also to envision a stronger, more collaborative relationship between the press, the state, and the citizens. His message was not one of criticism but of partnership—a gentle yet firm reminder that journalism carries a profound responsibility beyond mere reporting. The media, he suggested, must become a vigilant bridge connecting the government to the people, not just by celebrating progress but also by ensuring that those in power remain answerable to the public they serve. In his view, this bridge must be built on truth, especially in an era where falsehoods travel faster than facts. Shibly’s remarks came against the backdrop of a government that has faced a cascade of global economic disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and domestic challenges since taking office. Yet, he maintained, the administration remains firmly rooted in a people-oriented philosophy, one that treats public service as a sacred duty rather than a privilege. By inviting the media to actively participate in this journey, he was acknowledging that no government can succeed in isolation. The press, in his eyes, is not an adversary to be managed but a vital institution that helps democracy breathe. This opening message set the tone for a briefing that was both reflective and forward-looking, blending practical governance with a deeply human understanding of the relationship between the state and its citizens. For journalists in attendance, it was a reminder that their work matters enormously—not merely as chroniclers of events, but as guardians of accountability, clarity, and hope in uncertain times.
Paragraph 2: The Media as a Bridge Between the Government and the People
At the heart of Shibly’s address was a simple yet powerful metaphor: the media serves as an important bridge between the government and the people. In elaborating on this idea, he urged journalists to go beyond the superficial coverage of press releases and official statements, and instead engage with the substance of public service initiatives, development programmes, and the everyday efforts being made to improve lives. He described the present government as being both people-oriented and accountable, emphasizing that its actions are continuously shaped by the needs and aspirations of ordinary citizens. But for this accountability to be visible, he argued, the media must actively illuminate the government’s work—not in a spirit of propaganda, but in a manner that allows citizens to see exactly how their tax money is being spent, how policies are being implemented, and how promises are being translated into reality. Shibly was careful to acknowledge the challenging circumstances under which the government has been operating. From global economic crises triggered by international conflicts to unpredictable supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures, the administration has had to navigate a minefield of external shocks. Yet, despite these adverse conditions, he insisted that the government has remained sincerely dedicated to ensuring comfort and security in people’s lives. This commitment, he suggested, deserves to be communicated effectively—not to silence criticism, but to provide a complete picture of the complex realities of governance. In a world where cynicism often dominates public discourse, Shibly’s words carried an appeal for fairness and balance. He did not ask the media to ignore problems or to become a mouthpiece for the administration. Instead, he invited them to recognize that governance is a continuous struggle against immense odds, and that within that struggle, there are stories of resilience, innovation, and genuine care that deserve attention. By framing the media as a bridge, he also acknowledged its power to shape public perception—a power that must be wielded with integrity, empathy, and a deep sense of responsibility. The bridge, after all, must carry traffic in both directions: information flowing from the government to the people, and feedback, concerns, and criticisms flowing back from the people to the government.
Paragraph 3: Navigating Global Crises and Stabilizing Essential Services
One of the most pressing issues discussed at the briefing was the ongoing situation regarding power and gas supplies, a matter that has directly affected millions of households and businesses. Shibly acknowledged the severity of the challenges, but he also emphasized the government’s prompt and proactive response. He attributed many of the difficulties to the international war situation and a host of related challenges that have disrupted global energy markets and created unprecedented volatility in prices. Rather than making excuses, however, he chose to highlight the swift measures that were taken to bring the situation under control. He spoke with quiet confidence, assuring those present that the worst had passed and that the people would very soon begin reaping lasting benefits from the government’s interventions. This was not mere optimism; it was a recognition that behind every statistic about energy supply lies a human story—a family waiting for electricity to cook a meal, a student trying to study under a dim light, a shopkeeper struggling to keep goods fresh. Shibly’s words were meant to reassure these everyday people that their struggles were seen and understood. He painted a picture of a government that, despite being caught in the crosswinds of global turbulence, had managed to steady the ship and chart a course toward stability. His tone was empathetic, acknowledging the inconvenience and hardship that many had endured, while also looking ahead with hope. He reminded the audience that governance is not about instant gratification but about making difficult decisions under pressure and staying the course even when results are slow to materialize. The power and gas situation, he suggested, was a testament to the government’s resilience and its refusal to surrender to circumstances beyond its control. By framing the issue in this way, Shibly encouraged patience and understanding, while also reaffirming the administration’s commitment to transparency. He did not shy away from the fact that problems existed, but he also made it clear that the government was not hiding from them. Instead, it was working relentlessly, hour after hour, to find solutions that would ultimately improve the quality of life for every citizen.
Paragraph 4: People as the True Owners of the State and the Meaning of Power
Perhaps the most philosophical moment of the briefing came when Shibly reflected on the nature of power and the relationship between the state and its citizens. He described the people as the real owners of the state, a sentiment that resonates deeply in any democracy but is often forgotten in the corridors of power. According to him, the Prime Minister has been uniquely successful in making the people feel this ownership through his day-to-day activities. This is not a matter of grand gestures or theatrical displays of populism; rather, it is reflected in the quiet, consistent, and humble manner in which the Prime Minister approaches his duties. Shibly was careful to define power in ethical terms, asserting that power is not a matter of enjoyment but a responsibility. This distinction is crucial, especially in a political landscape where authority is frequently mistaken for privilege. By emphasizing responsibility, he was signaling that the government’s mandate is rooted in service, not self-interest. Every decision, every policy, every programme must ultimately be evaluated by one question: does it serve the public welfare? Shibly’s words carried a moral weight, reminding those in government—and those observing from the outside—that leadership is a burden to be carried with humility, not a trophy to be displayed. He spoke of the Prime Minister’s efforts to connect with citizens on a human level, to understand their struggles, and to make them feel that their voices truly matter. This is not always easy in a world of bureaucracy and protocol, but it is essential for building trust and legitimacy. The press secretary’s reflections were a call for a more compassionate form of governance, one that recognizes the dignity of every individual. He invited the media to help tell this story—not as a celebration of a single leader, but as a testament to the idea that governance can be a force for good when it is anchored in a genuine sense of duty. In a time when many people feel disconnected from their institutions, Shibly’s message served as a reminder that the state exists for the people, and that its true strength lies not in its authority, but in its ability to inspire confidence and hope.
Paragraph 5: A Community Call to Action Against Dengue and Public Health Awareness
Turning his attention to a more immediate public health concern, Shibly reiterated the Prime Minister’s urgent call for collective action to prevent dengue, a disease that has repeatedly afflicted the country during the rainy season. He specifically pointed to the months of September, October, and November as particularly vulnerable periods, when the risk of outbreaks peaks and the burden on healthcare systems intensifies. His message was practical, direct, and deeply human: he urged every citizen to spend at least five minutes each day cleaning their homes and surroundings to destroy Aedes mosquito larvae, the primary vector for dengue transmission. This simple yet potentially life-saving habit, he argued, could make an enormous difference if practiced consistently. Additionally, he called for organized cleanliness drives every Saturday, transforming individual responsibility into a communal ritual. This is not merely a matter of civic duty; it is an act of solidarity with neighbors, family members, and the wider community. Shibly’s plea was framed not as a government directive imposed from above, but as a shared mission that requires the participation of everyone. He recognized that government programmes and medical facilities alone cannot solve the problem; the fight against dengue must be waged in every home, every alley, and every stagnant pool of water. By appealing to the public in such a personal way, he hoped to inspire a sense of ownership over public health. He also acknowledged the vital role of the media in amplifying this message, ensuring that accurate information about prevention reaches every corner of the country. In a world filled with health-related misinformation, clear and consistent communication becomes a form of protection. Shibly’s emphasis on daily action reflects an understanding that sustainable change rarely comes from dramatic, one-off campaigns but rather from the accumulation of small, everyday efforts. His words were a gentle nudge, reminding people that they are not powerless in the face of disease. With vigilance, cooperation, and a little bit of daily effort, communities can protect themselves and their loved ones. This call to action was not just about cleaning homes; it was about building a culture of care, awareness, and proactive responsibility that extends far beyond the dengue season.
Paragraph 6: Combating Misinformation and the Media’s Special Role in Protecting Truth
In the final segment of his briefing, Shibly turned his attention to one of the most insidious challenges of the modern information age: the rapid spread of rumours and misinformation. He called on the media to play a special role in preventing this epidemic of falsehoods, which can undermine public trust, fuel panic, and destabilize society. His proposal was concrete and actionable: he urged every television channel and newspaper to run fact-checking segments for at least ten to fifteen minutes each day, dedicated specifically to verifying information circulating on social media and other digital platforms. This, he argued, would empower people to know the correct information and protect themselves from the harmful consequences of believing lies. In an era where a single viral post can shape public opinion or incite fear, the media’s role as a guardian of truth has never been more critical. Shibly’s appeal was not directed at suppressing dissent or controlling narratives; rather, it was a plea for rigorous journalistic standards and a commitment to separating fact from fiction. He understood that misinformation thrives in the absence of reliable, trustworthy sources, and that the media is uniquely positioned to fill that void. By dedicating time each day to fact-checking, news organizations would not only serve the public interest but also strengthen their own credibility in an environment where trust in media is often fragile. The press secretary’s remarks were accompanied by the presence of other officials, including Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin, Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman, Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony, Prime Minister’s Speech Writer Mahfuzur Rahman, and PM’s Personal Physician Dr. Monowarul Kadir Bitu, as well as members of the Press Wing. Their collective presence signaled that this was not just one individual’s opinion, but a coordinated message from the highest levels of the government. As the briefing drew to a close, Shibly’s overarching message remained clear: the relationship between the government, the media, and the people must be rooted in honesty, accountability, and a shared commitment to the common good. In a complex and often chaotic world, these values are the compass that can guide society toward a future that is more informed, more resilient, and more hopeful.