KARACHI: Prime Minister (PM) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has reiterated the resolve of his government to protect and ensure the ‘Freedom of Press’ as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan, and categorically assured the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) that the government is not contemplating any change in the present legal structure of Print Media.
He assured that any law or amendment if needed, will be undertaken in consultation with the APNS, CPNE, PFUJ and other stakeholders.
APNS Secretary General Umer Mujib Shami called on the PM on Monday, wherein the prime minister was apprised of the profound concern of APNS on the proposed draft ‘Pakistan Print Media Regulatory Authority (PPMRA) Ordinance’.
The APNS stated that the proposed law reported in a section of press appears a draconian and repressive law which may badly affect the ‘freedom of expression’ in the country attained by the media after a prolonged and protracted struggle. He stated that the Ministry of Information has dug out the notorious ‘Press and Publications Ordinance (PPO) 1964’ promulgated by the dictator, General Ayub Khan, from the dustbin of the history.
The PPO was replaced by the press, newspapers, news agencies and Books Registration Ordinance 2002 on the strong protest and struggle of media and the democratic forces.
The secretary general also informed the PM that the proposed law contravenes the provisions of 18th Amendment and will be completely rejected by the APNS and other media organisations. He requested that the proposed law be withdrawn immediately.
The prime minister assured Shami that no law inconsistent with Article 19 of the Constitution would be framed by the government and if any law to improve the status of print media would be required, the government would ensure meaningful consultation with the stakeholders before promulgating such law. The APNS secretary general thanked the prime minister for the clarification to address the concerns of the media.
