PTI government gives PTV, Radio Pakistan complete editorial freedom

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 21 August 2018

The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government has announced that Pakistan Television and Radio Pakistan will now operate with complete editorial freedom. This decision marks a significant shift aimed at reducing political influence over state media.

Summary

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government has announced giving the state-run Pakistan Television and Radio Pakistan complete editorial freedom.

For decades, these outlets were used by successive governments for their own promotion.

The new Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry (pictured) announced Tuesday that these news organizations from now will represent Pakistan and not the ruling party. “The editorial board will see no political interference.”

The minister said the decision was in line with Prime Minister Imran Khan’s vision.

Fawad also said there will be visible changes in the ministry within the next three months.

He pointed out that large sum of money given to media houses in advertising will have to cease. “This money belongs to the people of Pakistan and every single rupee will have to be protected,” he said in a video clip.

Pakistani press freedom watchdog Freedom Network welcomed the government’s decision to lift content restrictions on PTV and Radio Pakistan.

“@pressfreedompk welcomes @FawadPTIUpdates announcement to lift content censorship in @PTVNewsOfficial. It is hoped an independent #editorial board will take effect to help the network become free from govt control," FN said in a tweet.

KEY POINTS:

• PTI government grants editorial freedom to state media outlets.
• Fawad Chaudhry announces no political interference in content.
• Changes in media ministry expected within three months.
• Advertising funds for media houses to be restructured.
• Press freedom watchdog welcomes the decision.