Dhaka, Jan 7, 2008: Law and Information Adviser Barrister Mainul Hosein Monday launched a veiled attack on politicians saying that it would be pointless to dream of returning to politics of plunder and anarchy that prevailed before January 11 2007, reports UNB.

"We''re not trying to retain power… We''re trying to salvage democracy from ruination," he told a seminar titled ''Freedom of Mass Media and People''s Right to Information'' at PIB.

The Adviser said it is not possible for only 11 Advisers to restore democracy and urged the people to extend their hands to the caretaker government in its efforts to establish democracy.

"Since we''re not here to take part in elections, we don''t need to maintain good relations with anybody. We''re not for any side and nor here to do job. We''re here to serve the people and the nation taking dangerous risks," he said.

About the ongoing anti-corruption drive, Mainul said the government has established the rule of law and transparency through filing corruption cases.

"We''ve no grudge against anyone. We''ve no connection with corruption cases, we''re only extending cooperation with the Anti-Corruption Commission in a transparent manner," he said.

The Adviser said the incumbent caretaker government has brought about reforms in the Election Commission, the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Judiciary.

Besides, the government has successfully faced the aftermath of Cyclone Sidr and will be able to tackle the rice deficit.

About press freedom, Mainul said the freedom of press and democracy are linked with each other and observed that the present government should have good relations with the press.

"A responsible newspaper can work with a good government as a partner," he said, adding that any one can become the owner of  a newspaper but the newspaper must be run by editor and journalists.

Recalling the formation of Baksal by slain President Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Mainul said democracy was killed through Baksal that led him to resignation from that party.

He advised journalists not to report whatever they see and think but write with responsibility considering the public interest.

Information Secretary Zamil Osman presided over the opening session which was addressed, among others, by Dr Shakhawat Ali Khan, Prof Kazi Abdul Mannan, Dr Golam Rahman, PIB
Director General Nazrul Islam, Press Club President Showkat Mahmud, AP Bureau Chief Farid Hossain and New Age city editor Saiful Huda.

@ The Bangladesh Journal