The Pakistani Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has announced a nationwide “Black Day” on Friday in protest of changes to the law on the prevention of electronic crimes (PECA).

In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Anshad declared that journalists across the country would raise black flags at press clubs and trade union offices along with holding protest meetings against the controversial changes.

Leaders criticized the government for limiting the freedom of press and emphasizing that while in opposition, the reigning party had strongly gone for journalists’ rights – an approach repeated by previous administrations.

PFUJ leaders condemned the changed PECA legislation and argued that it enables detention and sanctions without trial procedures. They announced the launch of a “Press Freedom Movement” that promised that their resistance would extend beyond protests for a sustained campaign.

Butt stated that the movement had already begun plans to arrange a sit-in outside the House of Parliament until the changes have been lifted. In addition, PFUJ is investigating legal ways of challenging the law, where legal professionals are currently analyzing its provisions.

While Butt recognizes that immediate enforcement remains unlikely due to pending procedural formalities, butt expressed concern that the government’s rapid approval of the law could indicate plans for accelerated enforcement.

He said the coming days would clarify the implementation timeline and confirmed PFUJ’s obligation to support journalists affected by the law – both legal and humanitarian.