Lalitpur: Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel has advocated for the inclusion of media personnel in the future government. Speaking at the second national conference of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), Province Associate, held in Mahalaxmisthan of Lalitpur, he highlighted the skills journalists possess across various fields and argued for their representation in the upcoming government.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Kharel emphasized that journalists have a comprehensive understanding of the country, society, and politics, which would enable them to effectively participate in running the state. Drawing from his own experience, he noted, “I am also a person who has worked in journalism for 25 years. I became a minister suddenly on the back of the Gen Z movement.”
Minister Kharel attributed his appointment as minister to the Gen Z movement’s respect for journalism. He pointed out that among more than 14,000 journalists in the country, many are capable of leading the nation. He also highlighted the government’s achievements, stating that the current administration, established with the support of the Gen Z movement, has been focused on people-oriented work over the past four months.
In preparation for the upcoming elections on March 5, Minister Kharel called for support from all sectors of society, including the journalism sector, to ensure a successful outcome. He reiterated the Gen Z movement’s commitment to change, urging every section of society to contribute actively to the success of the general elections.
Chairperson of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, Nirmala Sharma, expressed that the FNJ is committed to advocating for the rights and interests of working journalists, as well as safeguarding freedom of expression and democracy. Meanwhile, Baikuntharaj Parajuli, president of the Film Journalists Association, stressed the importance of unity among journalists to protect the rights and interests of those employed in mainstream media.