Bans on political speeches are not democratic, LHC orders PEMRA to ensure freedom of speech
Lahore High Court’s (LHC) Justice Shams Mehmood Mirza has ordered the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to ensure freedom of expression, notably avoiding restrictions or prohibitions on political party leaders’ statements.
The order was issued at a hearing on a plea brought by Imran Khan, the founder of PTI, contesting the ban on his name and speeches on television networks. Justice Mirza stressed the necessity of a fair playing field, particularly in the run-up to the 2024 general elections, and instructed PEMRA to broadcast the speeches of all political leaders equally.
Imran Khan’s attorney cited the Election Commission of Pakistan’s (ECP) election timetable, which specified February 8 as the poll date, and said that limiting the petitioner’s ability to broadcast his name or speech on TV networks amounted to denying his rights.
Justice Mirza questioned the body behind the suspension and orders provided to TV networks, asking whether it was PEMRA or the ‘agricultural department.’ The court emphasized that limits on free expression are typical of totalitarian regimes and should be opposed in democratic countries.
Justice Mirza ordered PEMRA to provide an affidavit signed by the chairman assuring free expression and no restrictions on political party leaders’ remarks. The case was postponed for two weeks.
Source: Minute Mirror
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