The Standing Committee for the Council of Pakistan newspaper editors (CPNE) on Saturday considered challenges to press freedom, the arbitrary use of the prevention of electronic crimes (PECA), practice of linking government ads with favorable coverage and the growing distinction between professional journalists and self-designed media practitioners.
Members from all over the country approved a decision presented by Ali Ahmed Dhillon, and called on the government to ensure that no four or action under PECA begins against any journalist without prior consultation with media organs or review of a neutral committee.
On Friday, Minister of Information Attaullah Tarar praised the role of the media in counteracting Indian tales during the recent conflict from the Pakistan India and described the period as “extraordinary circumstances”.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s strength was not in number or resources, but in “having the truth.” “The truth cannot hide or be counteracted,” he said.
Senior member Dr. Jabbar Khattak emphasized the need for an ethical code for CPNE members to ensure confidence. He added that unlimited access to information was important to fight the threat of fake news.
The meeting attended CPNE President Kazim Khan, Senior Vice President Ayaz Khan, Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio and other office carriers.
