PFUJ condemns life threats to Ansar Abbasi | Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)

Pakistan Press Foundation

PFUJ condemns life threats to Ansar Abbasi

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has strongly condemned the life-threats to senior journalist Ansar Abbasi and termed this a result of Ansar’s investigative stories starting from land scam involving religious parties to award of illegal marks to the daughter of the chief justice.

A press release issued by PFUJ Secretary General Mazhar Abbas expressed deep concern over the reported threats to the senior journalist. It said, “Threats to Abbasi is linked to his bold reporting and he must be provided protection.”

“Abbasi has informed the PFUJ about the threats to his life and we take it seriously because of his recent reporting from the chief justice’s daughter’s case to a land scam allegedly involving a religious party leader,” the press release said.

Threats to journalists are increasing in the last few months for their reporting, particularly in areas like Swat, Peshawar and tribal areas and the government should take it seriously, it said.

According to the PFUJ information, at least one dozen journalists are under serious threats, some of the names the PFUJ could not reveal for their security and safety. According to the press release, those under threat include journalists from The News, (besides Ansar Abbasi), Aaj Kal, Daily Times, local newspapers from Swat, etc.

The PFUJ said that 2008 remained a violent year for journalists during which eight journalists were killed, six were detained or kidnapped by militant groups and intelligence agencies. The PFUJ will resist all pressures on journalists, whether from the government or non-state actors, the press release concluded.
Source: The News
Date:12/31/2008