PM Nawaz says media should forget ratings for two years
JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 14 February 2015
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PM Nawaz Sharif addressed the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors, emphasizing the need for responsible journalism during challenging times. He announced financial support to encourage media accountability.Summary
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Saturday urged journalists to exercise discretion and judgment to play a responsible role as the country was passing through a critical time.
He said this while addressing the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) in Lahore where he reaffirmed his resolve for independent and free media and judiciary.
The prime minister also announced a grant of Rs50 million for CPNE, apparently to win support of the journalists in the ongoing war on terror.
“For the next two years, the channels should forget race for ratings and support the government,” he said, adding the media should hold itself accountable by formulating a code of conduct.
He also lauded role of the journalists for upholding the Constitution, rule of law and democracy. The journalists have been playing a vital role to improve image of Pakistan on the international front; therefore they should not let go ethics and principles, he said.
KEY POINTS:
- PM urges media to prioritize ethics over ratings for two years.
- Announces Rs50 million grant for CPNE to support journalists.
- Emphasizes the role of journalists in upholding democracy.
- Calls for a media code of conduct for greater accountability.
- Encourages journalists to improve Pakistan's international image.
