Staff Correspondent

Prime Minister's Press Secretary AAM Saleh Shibly on Wednesday urged the media to play a stronger role in ensuring government accountability, highlighting public service initiatives and helping people distinguish verified information from rumours and misinformation.

He made the call at a press briefing at Karabi Hall of the Prime Minister's Office marking seven months of the government in office and discussing contemporary issues.

Shibly said the present government is people-oriented and accountable, while the media serves as an important bridge between the government and the people by informing the public about its activities, development programmes and public service initiatives.

"Despite facing various global economic crises and adverse circumstances since taking office, the government has been sincerely working to ensure comfort and security in people's lives," he said.

Regarding the country's ongoing power and gas situation, Shibly said the government had taken prompt measures despite the international war situation and various challenges.

"As a result, the situation has now come under control and the people will start reaping the lasting benefits very soon," he said.

Describing the people are the real owners of the state, the press secretary said the Prime Minister had been able to make people feel this through his day-to-day activities.

"Power is not a matter of enjoyment; it is a responsibility and the government is working for public welfare accordingly," he said.

Reiterating the Prime Minister's call for urgent measures to prevent dengue, Shibly said, September, October and November are particularly vulnerable months for the disease.

He urged people to spend at least five minutes every day cleaning their homes and surroundings to destroy Aedes mosquito larvae and to organise cleanliness drives every Saturday.

Shibly also called on the media to play a special role in preventing rumours and misinformation.

He urged every television channel and newspaper to run fact-checking segments for at least 10 to 15 minutes daily to verify information circulating on social media and other platforms.

"This will enable people to know the correct information and protect themselves from rumours," he said.

Prime Minister's Adviser Mahdi Amin and Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman also spoke at the briefing, which was conducted by Deputy Press Secretary Jahidul Islam Rony.

Prime Minister's Speech Writer Mahfuzur Rahman, PM's Personal Physician Dr Monowarul Kadir Bitu and members of the Press Wing were present.