DawnNews anchor Adil Shahzeb receives death threats

JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 30 April 2022 | JP Staff Report

ISLAMABAD—Several prominent journalists have expressed extreme anger and outrage over the harassment of DawnNews TV anchor Adil Shahzeb by higher-ups of the former PTI government led by Imran Khan.

Shahzeb, who hosts a popular prime-time talk show 'Live with Adil Shahzeb on DawnNews, disclosed on Twitter that he is receiving death threats on social media. He also accused former Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry and ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan's Chief of Staff Shahbaz Gill and said that PTI workers were abusing his family and threatening to kill him at their behest.

In another tweet, the Shahzeb stated: "I have been a fan of Shahbaz Gill ever since he called me to tell that the Federal Minister of Information has given directions to abuse family of Adil Shahzeb on social media, but I [Shahbaz Gul] can't do that." He regretted that they both are now teamed up against the anchor.

Asma Shirazi, a renowned journalist, while showing solidarity with Shahzeb, indirectly blamed the PTI leaders behind the harassment of journalists and stated: "It is an open secret that we all used to get abused on the direct orders of whom, but we will never respond in similar way."

"Stay safe and keep up the good work," she stated in a tweet with hashtag #JournalismIsNotACrime

Fahd Husain, a columnist for daily Dawn and analyst, also took to Twitter and said: "It is unacceptable to hurl such threats at a credible, professional & highly regarded journalist like Adil Shahzeb. I stand fully with you Adil. Stay strong."

Raza Ahmed Rumi, a prominent journalist and author, showed concern over the harassment of Shahzeb. "Stay safe and strong Adil Shahzeb -- report these these stupid cyberbullies and two pence trolls."

Many other journalists and social media users condemned the threats and called for legal action against those responsible. According to them, it is a matter of grave concern and must be investigated by law enforcement agencies.

Shahzeb, in his different talk shows aired on DawnNews, has been strongly criticizing the ousted government. He also raised his voice against the violation of the sanctity of Masjid-e-Nabvi by PTI supporters.

Photo: Twitter (@adilshahzeb)