On October 8, a delegation from the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), headed by Central Information Secretary Nadeem Afzal Chan, visited the National Press Club (NPC) to express solidarity with journalists following a recent police raid. The delegation, which also included Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed and Ayesha Nawaz Chaudhry, condemned the police actions as a direct attack on press freedom.
During their visit, the delegation met with leaders of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and NPC officials. They discussed the incident where Islamabad Police forcefully entered NPC, assaulting journalists and damaging equipment. The delegation described the police actions as a violation of democratic norms and the sanctity of the institution.
Nadeem Afzal Chan emphasized the historical alliance between journalism and politics, noting that journalists have upheld their professional dignity through challenging times. “Relationship between journalism and politics is inseparable, PPP has always respected journalists for upholding professional values even in the most difficult times, as many journalists have even sacrificed their lives in defense of truth and the sanctity of the pen,” Chan stated.
The delegation also voiced concerns over the gradual erosion of various freedoms in Pakistan, including press and civic rights. They stressed that a democratic society cannot function without an independent and fearless media. The PPP leaders pledged full support for the Charter of Demands presented by journalists to the Ministry of Interior, which includes a permanent ban on police entry into any press club across the country.
PFUJ President Afzal Butt highlighted the key demands, including the formation of a joint action committee with representatives from the Interior Ministry, Information Ministry, and elected media bodies to prevent future incidents. He also suggested incorporating legal protections for press clubs and journalists into relevant legislation.
NPC President Azhar Jatoi expressed gratitude towards the PPP delegation for their support, emphasizing that the National Press Club represents media professionals from across the nation. He affirmed the collective preparation of the Charter of Demands by all journalist groups, which was presented to the government.
PPP reaffirmed their commitment to defending press freedom and supporting the journalistic community in their struggle for democratic rights and fundamental freedoms. “The PPP stands firmly with the journalist community and supports their Charter of Demands,” Ayesha Nawaz Chaudhry asserted.
