Journalists nationwide, supported by press clubs and unions from various cities, staged protests against the amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca). Demonstrations occurred in major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and smaller towns like Lakki Marwat, Chistian, and Mirpur Khas.
The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police blocked the route at D-Chowk using barbed wire and arrested several journalists participating in the protests.
The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), along with its regional chapters and press clubs such as Lahore Press Club, Karachi Press Club, and Peshawar Press Club, criticized the amendments for curbing freedom of speech and press. Protesters demanded the government withdraw the controversial changes, which they claim are designed to stifle journalism and free expression.
Lahore Protest:
At a protest in Lahore, PFUJ Secretary General Arshad Ansari addressed the crowd, expressing serious concerns about the approval process for the Peca amendments. He criticized Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for neglecting national issues due to foreign engagements, stating, “While critical decisions affecting press freedom are made, the minister is abroad meeting Congress members.”
Ansari highlighted that the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of IT moved the amendments forward without consulting the Ministry of Information or engaging with journalists meaningfully. He condemned the Senate Standing Committee on Interior, chaired by Faisal Rehman, for rushing the approval process. “Senator Palwasha Khan admitted the bill was passed within 15 minutes under orders,” he revealed.
Ansari questioned the urgency behind these amendments, calling them an attempt to silence journalists and suppress press freedom. He vowed that PFUJ and journalist organizations would continue their struggle for press rights, demanding broader consultation with stakeholders to safeguard freedom of expression.
JI Condemns Senate Approval:
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Chief Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman denounced the Senate’s approval of the Peca amendments, labeling it an attack on democratic principles and freedom of expression. Speaking to the media, he stated, “We reject this act. Freedom of speech cannot be restricted.”
Hafiz Naeem criticized the government for undermining democracy, describing the ruling coalition as a “Form 47 government” known for flawed decisions. He declared that laws aiming to suppress dissent would not be tolerated and pledged solidarity with journalists fighting for their constitutional rights.
