A fearless environment for journalism will be ensured in Bangladesh, newly appointed Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said on Wednesday.

A 50-member cabinet, led by BNP chairperson Tarique Rahman, took oath on Tuesday afternoon. Jahir Uddin Swapan was assigned the information and broadcasting portfolio in the new cabinet.

The minister arrived at the Secretariat at around 1:15pm on Wednesday and spoke to reporters.

Referring to his political career, Swapon said he understands the mental distress people go through when they live in fear—particularly those working in professions such as journalism, where many have to operate under constant surveillance.

“Since we already know the problems, and since the Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, has included media freedom in his plans, we will, Insha’Allah, create a fearless environment for journalism in Bangladesh,” he added.