Media bodies reject PECA

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 22 February 2022

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) has rejected recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act. They assert these changes threaten press freedom and constitutional rights.

Summary

ISLAMABAD - The media Joint Action Committee (JAC) has outrightly rejected the draconian amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), saying it is a flagrant move to undermine the freedom of the press, speech and defiant voices in the country.

The JAC comprises All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) and Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND).

“All media bodies would take any and all legal actions to challenge the attempt to curb media’s independence and its right to raise voice against any steps to curb freedom of expression as guaranteed in the Constitution,” the JAC statement said.

President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi signed the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) Amendment Bill on Sunday.

KEY POINTS:

• JAC comprises major media organizations in Pakistan.
• Amendments to PECA are viewed as draconian and an attack on free speech.
• JAC promises legal action against attempts to curb media independence.
• President Arif Alvi signed the PECA Amendment Bill recently.
• The amendments are seen as undermining journalists' rights.