DigiMAP announces interim cabinet

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 10 May 2021

The Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP) has announced its interim cabinet to enhance independent online journalism. The cabinet includes key figures from various media organizations.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP), that comprises independent online media organizations has announced its interim cabinet.

Sabookh Syed, Editor IBC Urdu, was elected chairman of DigiMAP interim cabinet. Other members are Adnan Khan Kakar, Editor Hum Sub (deputy chairperson), Adnan Aamir, Editor Balochistan Voices (general-secretary), Ali Warsi, web editor Naya Daur (deputy general secretary), and Shazia Mehboob, Editor of The Reporters (treasurer).

Thirteen founding members established DigiMAP in November 2020 at Lahore. The charter of DigiMAP, among other things, aims to support and practice independent online public-interest journalism in Pakistan.

DigiMAP is envisioned to act as a representative body for

• safeguarding the rights and interests of independent online journalism platforms in Pakistan
• shielding all association members against infringement of their constitutional and legal guarantees
• supporting business viability and resilience of its members
• developing strategies for engagement with federal and provincial governments on freedom of expression, rights to information, and online policies
• serving as a self-regulatory body for independent online journalism platforms

Presently, the DigiMAP cabinet is working on formulating its rules. Once these are approved, the alliance will start accepting applications for membership from independent online media platforms.

The interim cabinet will meet online after the Eid holidays to expedite the rules formulation process.

KEY POINTS:

• DigiMAP was established by thirteen founding members in November 2020.
• Sabookh Syed was elected as chairman of the interim cabinet.
• The cabinet aims to support independent online journalism and safeguard members' rights.
• DigiMAP plans to formulate its rules and start accepting membership applications after Eid.
• The cabinet will meet online to expedite the rules formulation process.