AEMEND Urges Prime Minister to Examine Restrictions to Media Freedom Being Deployed Through “Every Possible Tactic”
On December 19, the Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) expressed serious concerns about media freedom in Pakistan. In a meeting of its executive committee, the association called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to examine restrictions on media freedom, noting that “every possible tactic” was being employed to suppress dissent.
AEMEND highlighted several challenges affecting the media across the country. These included the use of legal actions against journalists, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) Ordinance, internet shutdowns, “unwarranted” restrictions to social media platforms, “illegal notices” by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) with “vague clauses ” and “tactics” that were causing financial losses to the media.
In its statement, AEMEND said the pressure on television channels “is aimed at exerting maximum control over the media and silencing dissent.”
“This one-sided portrayal of the situation is severely damaging the credibility of the media.”
The media body condemned PEMRA for acting as a “rubber stamp” which was putting pressure on TV channels through “issuing illegal notices daily”.
It added, “Journalists are being targeted under the guise of moral and legal restrictions on social media, with notices and cases filed against them to intimidate and achieve desired objectives.”
The association also drew attention to financial pressures placed on media organizations through the suspension of advertisements for outlets whose editorial policies are disapproved. These actions, it noted, are directly harming media organizations and journalists.
Internet disruptions and issues with social media platforms were also discussed, with AEMEND emphasizing their direct impact on journalists’ ability to work effectively.
The body also condemned the practice of political parties boycotting television channels, describing it as “undemocratic.”
AEMEND also appealed to political leaders, including Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, to examine the restrictions while emphasizing the government’s responsibility.
AEMEND announced plans to collaborate with other media bodies, including the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), and Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), to devise a joint strategy.
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