The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has announced a nationwide “Black Day” protest tomorrow in response to the recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari declared that black flags will be raised at press clubs and union offices across the country, with protest rallies taking place in various locations. The union leaders criticized the government for swiftly passing the law, pointing out that while in opposition, the current ruling party had been vocal about supporting press freedom, a stance that had also been echoed by previous administrations.
Butt expressed disappointment with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leadership, particularly Asif Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who had previously been strong advocates for press freedom in parliament.
The PFUJ leaders condemned the amended PECA, arguing that it allows for arrests and punishments without due process. They announced the launch of a “Press Freedom Movement” to oppose the legislation, stressing that their response would go beyond a one-time protest and evolve into a sustained campaign.
Butt confirmed that the movement has officially begun and will continue until the PECA amendments are repealed, with plans for a sit-in outside the Parliament House. He also mentioned that PFUJ is exploring legal challenges to the amendment, with legal experts currently reviewing its provisions.
While acknowledging that immediate enforcement of the law is unlikely due to pending authority rules, Butt expressed concern that the law’s swift passage could signal rapid implementation. He emphasized that the speed of enforcement would become clearer in the coming days. The PFUJ vowed to provide both legal and humanitarian support to journalists impacted by the act.
