Islamabad, Pakistan: In a concerning development that raises questions about press freedom, Pakistan has ordered electronic media outlets to cease coverage of 11 individuals, including journalists, who have been critical of the outgoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government and the military. The move has sparked debates about the implications of such a directive on freedom of expression.
The directive was issued by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), an entity tasked with overseeing electronic media. It referred to a decision by the Sindh High Court that questioned the rights of these individuals to appear on television, given their critical stance. Citing section 27 of the Pemra Ordinance 2002, the directive explicitly restricts media coverage of the listed individuals on electronic platforms. It explicitly states, “hereby prohibits media coverage of above-mentioned individuals being proclaimed offenders on electronic media and refrain from airing any news, reports, statements, or tickers of these individuals.”
Among those listed are Sabir Shakir, Moid Peerzada, Wajahat Saeed Khan, Shaheen Sehbai, Adil Farooq Raja, Ali Nawaz Awan, Murad Saeed, and Hammad Azhar. This directive has invoked concerns over the freedom of the press, as these individuals, including journalists, have expressed critical views about the government and the military. Some of them are known to be supporters of former premier Imran Khan, who faced a fall from power after a rift with the military establishment.
Pemra’s directive comes with a stern warning of serious penalties for any media outlet found in violation. It further highlights that the matter has been referred to the Council of Complaints, a move that has been met with scrutiny and criticism by media advocates.
Critics argue that this move to restrict media coverage of these individuals is a tactic often employed in Pakistan to silence dissenting voices and stifle criticism. By declaring them “proclaimed offenders” for failing to appear in court, it is believed that the government aims to curtail their ability to express their opinions through media platforms. Some of these individuals are reported to have left the country in order to avoid arrest.
As Pakistan undergoes a transition with the conclusion of the Sharif-led government’s tenure, questions linger about the impact of such directives on the country’s democratic values and commitment to free expression. This move has renewed conversations about the importance of a free and independent media as a cornerstone of any democracy.
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