Government to go ahead with PMDA

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 15 September 2021

The PTI government is set to establish the Pakistan Media Development Authority, responding to ongoing concerns about fake news. Despite widespread opposition from the media sector, the government insists on the need for regulation to protect its integrity.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—The PTI government on Wednesday made it clear it will go ahead and form the Pakistan Media Development Authority ignoring calls from the media industry not to do so.

"Strong consequences for fake news authors are needed; otherwise, it will continue damaging Pakistan," a short video posted on the official PTI Twitter account said.

Strong consequences for fake news authors are needed otherwise it will continue damaging Pakistan. Our Govt is committed to the formation of PDMA for media improvements. Why are some sections of media scared when they claim they don't give fake news? #میڈیا_مانگے_جھوٹ_کی_آزادیpic.twitter.com/oDYNvTAGG2

— PTI (@PTIofficial) September 15, 2021

"Our government is committed to the formation of [Pakistan Media Development Authority] PDMA for media improvements," the PTI emphasized in the video. It wondered "why some sections of media were scared if they don't run fake news?"

Almost all media bodies and industry stakeholders have rejected the PMDA.

KEY POINTS:

• PTI to proceed with Pakistan Media Development Authority formation.
• Government claims stronger action against fake news is necessary.
• Industry stakeholders broadly oppose the PMDA.
• Government emphasizes media improvements through PDMA.
• Controversy surrounds the implications for media freedom.