ISLAMABAD: Journalists across Pakistan have erupted in widespread protests after President Asif Zardari signed the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) amendment bill into law. The protests, now in their second day, are being led by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and other media organizations, with significant rallies taking place at the National Press Club in Islamabad.
The demonstrations have drawn large crowds, including journalists, anchors, and National Press Club officials, who are voicing strong opposition to the new amendments. Protesters chanted slogans and expressed their anger over the bill’s passage, which they argue threatens press freedom in the country.
PFUJ President Afzal Butt led the protest, criticizing the bill and claiming that the signing of the amendment contradicts the values championed by former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, who was a staunch advocate for press freedom. Butt also accused the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of betraying the journalistic community and broke promises regarding press freedom. He announced plans for a nationwide “black day” of protest, where press clubs will fly black flags and anchors will wear black armbands during their broadcasts.
Rana Azeem, PFUJ Secretary General, voiced concerns that the PECA amendments impose unnecessary restrictions on all media, not just social media, stifling the exposure of corruption and injustice. While acknowledging the challenges posed by fake news and online harassment, Azeem called for a more balanced approach than the sweeping regulations introduced by the bill.
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Other prominent figures, including journalist Asif Bashir Chaudhry, criticized the lack of parliamentary oversight in the establishment of the new regulatory bodies created under the law. Chaudhry warned that these bodies could be subject to government influence, undermining their independence.
The Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA) also expressed dismay over the President’s decision, stating that President Alvi had previously assured them he would not sign the bill. The PRA condemned the hasty signing, which they believe heightened anxiety within the journalistic community.
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