It gives us a sense of satisfaction to reflect that the growth of The Daily Star has been in tandem with the march of democracy in Bangladesh. It is with a sense of humility that we state that we have tried to play our due role in upholding the true spirit of democracy and democratic culture; something that is only possible if the press is unfettered.

And this is something that has been very close to our heart. The sine qua non of democracy in its true sense is a free media, fearless against odds and beholden to none, accountable only to the readers. It is not impartial stance but the need for objectivity that has compelled our actions in presenting the fact and the news to our readers, who are very astute in thoughts and can never be taken for granted. While neutrality by its character requires one to be equidistant, objectivity demands that we be closer to the truth, to the fact and to the right, rather than chart a safe middle path.

It is also the time to recall those that started us off in our onerous path, who are no longer with us, but whose contribution in making what we are today is immeasurable. We particularly recall the vision, the commitment and leadership provided to us by our founding Editor late S M Ali. We also pay our tribute to our founding Chairman late Azimur Rahman and founder Managing Director late A S Mahmud. We also recall the contribution of our Managing Editor Taufique Aziz Khan.

As we continue to chart the path we set for ourselves, we restate our pledge to work for 'Journalism Without Fear or Favour' and for the 'People's Right to Know'.