Afghan TV cameraman killed in suicide attack

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published November 20, 2017

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joined its affiliate the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA) in condemning the suicide attack in Kabul (Afghanistan) on November 16 that killed a television cameraman and many others.

The IFJ demanded swift action from the authorities to provide justice to the slain media staff.

Husain Nazari, a cameraman in Rah-e-Farda TV, was critically wounded in the suicide attack at a political gathering in Kabul on November 16 and succumbed to his injuries at a hospital on November 17. His colleague reporter Taqi Sadid was also injured in the attack and is undergoing treatment.

 The explosion outside the Qasr-e-Naween Hotel claimed the lives of 19 people including eight policemen. The Daesh (also known as ISIS) has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.

 Rahimullah Samandar, the president of AIJA, said: “We call on the government and international supporters to support the Nazari family and ensure that Sadid gets the best medical treatment.” According to AIJA, Nazari belongs to a poor family and was the sole bread earner of his family that includes his wife, child, a sister and an aged mother.

“The AIJA leadership is seriously concerned over the risks faced by Afghan journalists covering government programs, political gathering and front lines without proper safety training and equipment. Only a small number of media organizations in Afghanistan have safety policies and guidelines for their reporters.”

IFJ general secretary, Anthony Bellanger, said: "The safety situation for the media in Afghanistan is a grave concern for the IFJ. The killing of Husain Nazari brings the total number of media workers killed in Afghanistan this year to eight. Immediate and concrete action needs to be taken to guarantee the safety and security of the media community. The IFJ stands with AIJA in demanding safety training and equipment for the media, and for media outlets to implement safety policies."

 As part of the IFJ’s #EndImpunity campaign, the IFJ has mapped all media worker killings in Afghanistan since 1990 and called on the Afghan government to end the culture of impunity for crimes against journalists. – IFJ media release/Photo: AIJA

Sports reporting: The perks and pressures of covering international events

 September 20, 2024:  Explore the unique challenges and rewarding experiences of covering international sports events. From managing cultural differences to meeting tight deadlines, this feature dives into the realities of being a sports journalist on the world stage.

A blow to Balochistan as Dawn closes Quetta office

 September 17, 2024:  Dawn newspaper has permanently closed its Quetta office, marking a critical blow to journalism in Balochistan. The closure follows the earlier shutdown of DawnNews TV’s regional bureau, raising concerns about press freedom and independent reporting in the region.

Inside Pakistan's controversial ban on X: A broken system or strategic censorship?

 September 17, 2024:  Explore the contradictions of Pakistan's ban on X (formerly Twitter). While the public resorts to VPNs, government officials continue using the platform to air their views. What does this say about free speech and the rule of law?

Ban on X: Sindh High Court hints at summoning PTA chairman for contempt

 September 16, 2024:  The Sindh High Court criticizes PTA’s conflicting stance on the ban of X, formerly known as Twitter, and suggests summoning the PTA chairman for contempt of court proceedings. Hearing adjourned until September 24.

Shutdowns, threats, and murder: The high cost of ARY News’ bold reporting

 September 16, 2024:  ARY News has faced severe repercussions for its fearless journalism in Pakistan, including shutdowns, threats, and the tragic murder of Arshad Sharif. Explore the high cost of bold reporting and the challenges faced by ARY's reporters in their quest for truth

Over 80% of Pakistan's internet users faced slowdowns in August: Gallup Survey

 September 14, 2024:  A recent Gallup survey reveals that over 80% of internet users in Pakistan experienced slowdowns in August 2024, with significant impacts on freelancers and the economy, potentially costing $300 million.

Gharidah Farooqi responds boldly to CM Gandapur's accusations

 September 14, 2024:  Journalist Gharidah Farooqi has challenged Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to prove his allegations after he publicly accused her of accepting bribes to push political narratives. Farooqi’s bold response on Twitter adds fuel to the ongoing media versus politicians conflict in Pakistan.

'Gharidah Farooqi, it’s you!': Gandapur names and shames TV anchor

 September 14, 2024:  Ali Amin Gandapur's attack on journalists escalates as he names Gharidah Farooqi, prompting further outrage from the media. Are journalists being biased, or is this part of a larger political issue?