PFUJ calls on government to respect press freedom

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 30 April 2020

The PFUJ has called on the government to respect press freedom and address issues faced by media workers. Leaders expressed concerns over censorship and delayed payments.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—Pakistan Federal Union of Journalist (PFUJ) has demanded of the government to respect press freedom and citizens' right to freedom of expression and speech on the eve of Labour Day.

In a joint statement, PFUJ President Shahzada Zulfiqar and Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi called upon the government to ensure respect, honor, and dignity of media workers, eroding with every coming day due to the arm-twisting tactics by the invisible hands.

"Media strengthens democratic institutions, ensuring good governance, transparency, eradication of corruption and corrupt practices from the state and state institutions because a free media plays the role of a watchdog," the statement said.

The PFUJ leaders expressed alarm over censorship and the delay in payment of salaries and dues to media workers.

They called upon the government to bring significant reforms in labor laws, resolve the problems of working classes, and mitigate their sufferings.

KEY POINTS:

• PFUJ demands respect for press freedom and expression rights on Labour Day.
• Censorship and unpaid dues for media workers are significant concerns.
• Call for reforms in labor laws to support the working class.
• Media is essential for democratic institutions and transparency.
• Invisible pressures are eroding the dignity of media professionals.