The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) renewed its commitment to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision for a free and responsible press, stressing journalism’s role in strengthening democracy.
In a statement marking Jinnah’s death anniversary, PFUJ President Rana Azeem and Secretary General Shakeel Ahmed said Pakistan’s internal and external challenges, including instability and terrorism, increased the media’s responsibility to uphold truth, promote national unity and support democratic values.
They rejected yellow journalism that could undermine national unity, state institutions, national security or the credibility of the profession.
The PFUJ reaffirmed its commitment to defending genuine journalists’ rights, stating that journalism should be treated as a public service rather than merely a business. They condemned those who misuse journalism for personal or financial gain or to promote foreign interests, stating clearly that such individuals do not represent the journalist community or the ethos of the PFUJ.
The PFUJ leadership urged the federal government, including the information minister, secretary and principal information officer, to recognise the union as a legitimate representative of Pakistani journalists.
Shakeel Ahmed also discussed challenges facing Pakistani journalists and press freedom during a recent visit to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), where he presented the concerns of the Pakistani journalist community.
During a recent visit by PFUJ Secretary General Shakeel Ahmed, discussions with the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) focused on the challenges facing Pakistani journalists and the state of press freedom. Ahmed presented a strong defence of Pakistan’s position and the genuine concerns of the Pakistani journalist community, countering any one-sided narratives against the country.
The PFUJ reaffirmed its commitment to press freedom, responsible journalism, journalists’ rights and democratic values while stressing the importance of protecting the dignity of the profession and national interest.
