Maryam Nawaz discusses TV analysts in leaked audio

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 4 January 2022 |  Cherie Conela

A leaked audio features Maryam Nawaz discussing TV analysts with Pervez Rasheed, expressing concerns over their portrayal of the PMLN. The conversation highlights issues of media bias and representation.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—An alleged phone call of PMLN leader Maryam Nawaz has been leaked on social media as she discusses reportedly with former Information Minister Pervez Rasheed TV analysts who appeared in the Geo News program Report Card.

During the telephonic conversation posted by Hiraviews on Twitter, apparently, Rasheed briefs Maryam about the TV analysts, including Hasan Nisar, Irshad Bhatti, Mazhar Abbas, and Babar Sattar. He emphasizes that nobody on TV could be considered their spokesperson presenting PMLN's viewpoint to viewers.

"Journalist Niazi (Hafeezullah Naizi) has a balanced viewpoint; however, he has been taken off air and is not allowed to write columns," the conversation continues.

During the phone call, Maryam showed concern that it was unfair not to present the PMLN stance during the talkshows. In contrast, PTI-supported anchors freely criticize the political opponents, even using abusive and non-parliamentary language.

The audio clip concludes with instructions by Maryam to deliver gifts brought by her father and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif from Azerbaijan to journalists Nusrat Javeed and Rana Jawad.

The language used during the telephonic conversation while discussing the analysts is inappropriate and undignified.

KEY POINTS:

• Maryam Nawaz's phone call discussing TV analysts leaked online.
• Concerns raised about lack of PMLN representation in media.
• Pervez Rasheed briefs Maryam on analysts' coverage.
• Maryam instructs delivery of gifts to journalists.
• Discussion includes critique of PTI-supported anchors.