Freedom Network upset over contempt charges against Ansar Abbasi

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 31 December 2021

Freedom Network has voiced concern regarding contempt charges against journalist Ansar Abbasi. The charges, ordered by the Islamabad High Court, could impact media freedom in Pakistan.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—Freedom Network, Pakistani media rights and press freedom watchdog has shown concern over contempt charges against investigative journalist Ansar Abbasi by the Islamabad High Court.

FN stated in a tweet that it was upset at IHC CJ's order to frame charges against Abbasi and others in a contempt case. "Let media report public interest issues and the affidavit by Rana Shamim was to be reported if it existed at all," it stated, adding that "The report is confirmed by the former judge himself."

The network further clarified that it holds chief justice IHC in high esteem for his support to freedom of expression, but charges against Abbasi and others would prove disastrous for media freedom in the country.

The court directed Rana Shamim, Ansar Abbasi, and others to appear on January 7.

Photo: Twitter (@AnsarAAbbasi)

KEY POINTS:

• Freedom Network is concerned about contempt charges against Ansar Abbasi.
• Islamabad High Court ordered charges to be framed against Abbasi and others.
• FN believes media should report on public interest issues.
• The court hearing is set for January 7.
• The network emphasizes the importance of free expression.