Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) President Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stated that the Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) law in Pakistan is not an ideal law, but it is significantly better than the original version proposed.
When he spoke at Oxford University, he explained that the law had been improved after consultations and mentioned that the original draft included harsh sanctions, such as a 30-year judgment for a single social media post.
Bilawal reiterated that PPP had played a role in improving the PECA law, ensuring that it was not undermining democracy. He also defended the 26th constitutional amendment and noted that although it had changed from its original form, it still played a crucial role in strengthening by democracy. He explained that the changes in the amendment were made after consultation with Jamiat Disadvantaged Disadvantive Islam (Jui).
Addressing concerns about freedom of expression emphasized Bilawal that Pakistan’s democracy remains fragile and called to give up the desire to control each tweet, post and headline. He emphasized that the media, including social media, cannot be controlled and should remain free from unnecessary influence.
A month ago, President Asif Ali Zardari gave his consent to the controversial changes to the country’s cybercrime legislation despite the calls of journalists and media organizations to put the brakes on the bill.
The move came a day after the Senate pushed through the Peca 2016 changes that triggered nationwide protests from media workers who claimed the law was a gag order in disguise.
A press release issued by the Presidency confirmed that Zardari signed the prevention of bills for electronic crimes (amendments), 2025, together with the digital nation of Pakistan Bill and the National Commission on the Status of Women (change).
Previously, a consultative meeting held under the auspices of the Supreme Court’s Lawyers’ Association (SCBA) demanded cancellation of the recent changes made in the country’s cybercrime Law Peca, 2016.
The meeting with the title “Media Under Threat: Challenges, such as Media Staff after PECA (amendment), 2025” was organized at the SCBA headquarters.
What is peca?
The Pakistani government strengthens the law on the prevention of electronic crimes (PECA) with new changes to tackle fake news and illegal online content. The proposed law on the prevention of electronic crimes (amendments) 2025 imposes serious sanctions, including up to three years in prison and fines of RS2 million for the spread of disinformation.
An important provision is the creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which is tasked with regulating social media platforms and removing illegal content.
DRPA will have powers to investigate complaints, remove content and enforce digital ethics. The changes also redefine social media platforms and require compliance with social media companies that may require registration and appointment of local representatives.
While supporters believe the amendments are important to fight false news and hate opinion, critics warn of potential censorship and abuse.
President of SCBA President Rauf Atta was watched by members of the bar as well as senior journalists and media persons
