Condemnations of attack on media and violence in the country
ISLAMABAD (May 13 2007): Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) has strongly condemned attack on the independent private TV channel, AAJ, and criticised the provincial and Federal governments for their failure to provide protection to one of the most respected and popular TV channels of the country for six long hours.
The members and office bearers of Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists held a rally from Islamabad Press Club to the parade playground here on Saturday evening, chanting anti government and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) slogans.
Addressing the rally, RIUJ President Afzal Butt described the attack on AAJ TV as an assault on the freedom of expression and electronic media.
He said that the journalist community would continue to perform its national and professional responsibility undaunted to present truth and facts to the readers/viewers.
He held the MQM and its leader Altaf Hussain responsible for firing on AAJ TV and harassment of the journalists.
They expressed full support to the journalist community, especially the AAJ TV in their struggle for freedom of expression and access to information. They alleged that the MQM and its leadership was behind these attacks on the AAJ TV and opposition political parties in Karachi on Saturday.
(Business Recorder)
Attack on media in Karachi condemned
ISLAMABAD, May 14: The Citizens’ Media Commission of Pakistan (CMCP) has expressed shock over the tragic loss of life, injuries and destruction of property in Karachi over the weekend.
The CMCPÂ’s Islamabad chapter, in a statement, said the happenings of the day would always be remembered as a black mark on the face of Pakistan.
“On this day, the fascist forces of the regime and its coalition allies were let loose to wreak havoc with the lives of innocent Pakistanis in well-planned and orchestrated armed attacks,” it noted.
Throughout the day, the CMCP said, there was no sign of government law enforcement agencies, fire brigades, ambulances or any other attempt to provide rescue or relief to the citizens.
The commission also condemned the armed attack on the offices of Aaj Television and the burning of vehicles parked in its compound.
(Dawn)
Source: Business Recorder/Dawn
Date:5/16/2007
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