In a significant development aimed at bolstering journalists’ welfare, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi approved establishing an endowment fund specifically for working journalists. This decision was announced during a meeting with a delegation from the Peshawar Press Club, led by its President M. Riaz.
The chief minister agreed in principle to a proposal to establish a dedicated Endowment Fund for journalists affiliated with the Peshawar Press Club. Additionally, he confirmed that the groundbreaking ceremony for a new, state-of-the-art Peshawar Press Club building would occur at the earliest opportunity.
Highlighting the importance of a free and independent press, Chief Minister Afridi reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to media freedom and ensuring a safe environment for journalists. He outlined multiple fiscal commitments in the Provincial Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, aimed at supporting the media community. These commitments include Rs1 billion allocated for interest-free loans for journalists’ professional development, Rs500 million for establishing media colonies, Rs150 million for the new press club building, Rs300 million for rehabilitating district press clubs, and Rs100 million to foster innovation and modernisation in the information sector.
Furthermore, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Journalists’ Welfare Endowment Fund has been increased from Rs200 million to Rs500 million. The Chief Minister also directed that clearing outstanding government advertising dues to media organisations should be conditional upon paying journalists’ salaries, outstanding dues, and ensuring minimum wage compliance.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister instructed officials to provide journalists with a briefing on the proposed New Peshawar Valley City Media Enclave project and ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations. He also directed the organisation of study tours for journalists to enhance their professional capacity.
The Peshawar Press Club delegation appreciated the government’s ongoing initiatives, including the inclusion of media sector development projects in the forthcoming Annual Development Programme (ADP), the announcement of the club building’s reconstruction, and the provision of a grant for the press club.
The meeting was attended by notable figures including Provincial Minister for Information and Public Relations Shafi Jan, Secretary Information and Public Relations Matiullah Khan, and other members of the press club’s governing body.
Chief Minister Afridi emphasised the government’s dual commitment to supporting media institutions and improving the working conditions and welfare of media professionals. A consultative mechanism will be developed in collaboration with the elected leadership of the Peshawar Press Club and media organizations to formulate a practical roadmap for improving journalists’ welfare.
