Almeida draws criticism after terming Imran 'dictator-in-chief'

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 23 December 2016

Cyril Almeida criticized Imran Khan by calling him dictator-in-chief, which sparked a mixed reaction on Twitter. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Pakistani politics and media.

Summary

ISLAMABAD: Cyril Almeida, the man at the center of Dawn Leaks, currently being probed by an inquiry commission, faced the wrath of Twitterati after terming Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan “dictator-in-chief”.

In response to Imran’s tweet in which he vowed to oust members in “Faisalabad and elsewhere” who voted for Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) in the local elections, Cyril tweeted: “Dictator-in-chief of the Banana Republic of PTI…”

In his tweet Amir Mateen, anchor at 92 News, hinted that Cyril is harsher on the opposition than he is on the government. “What's wrong in kicking out violators. Ain't you more harsh on opposition not giving it as much benefit of doubt as you give to govt”.

Another tongue-in-cheek tweet was: “If IK is dictator in chief than you must be News leaks in chief”.

Cyril’s October 6 story - Act against militants or face international isolation, civilians tell military - led to tensions in civilian-military relations. He was put on the ECL before being taken off. The government after thrice denying the story formed an inquiry commission which is currently probing the matter.

One of the tweets carried a letter of PTI Faisalabad city president asking party members to abstain from voting for the mayor of the city. Other tweets were harsh, alleging the journalist has sold himself to the PMLN and that he was a traitor.

However, there was also support for Cyril with one of the tweets saying: “Imran Khan's impressive dedication to politics does not make him exempt from criticism or conjecture”.

KEY POINTS:

• Cyril Almeida termed Imran Khan as dictator-in-chief on Twitter.
• The criticism led to a backlash from supporters of Khan and other media personalities.
• Almeida has been involved in the Dawn Leaks controversy and is under inquiry.
• Some tweets defended Almeida's right to criticize politicians, regardless of their position.
• Political tensions between civilian and military relations have been heightened due to recent stories by Almeida.