PFUJ condemns blocking of Zardari interview

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 2 July 2019

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists has condemned the off-airing of Asif Ali Zardari's interview shortly after it aired. They demand accountability and protection of media freedoms as enshrined in the constitution.

Summary

ISLAMABAD — Afzal Butt (pictured), President of Pakistan Federal Union of Journalist (PFUJ) and Secretary-General Ayub Jan Sarhandi, in a joint statement have condemned off-airing of a TV interview of PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari on Geo News minutes after it aired Monday.

“This is a severe violation of media ethics and set norms of the broadcast industry, and against the Article 19 of the constitution, which ensures freedom of speech and right of expression,” the union leaders said.

They called upon the government to investigate the incident and take stern action against those who issued the instructions to end the broadcast.

“This action has brought a bad name to Pakistan and is being condemned by the international media, human rights organizations, and the public at large.

PFUJ demanded that media freedom, freedom of expression, and right to speech as guaranteed in the Constitution of Pakistan be ensured. The union called for an end to the issuance of instructions and advice to media houses by unknown and hidden hands.

KEY POINTS:

• Zardari's interview was cut off shortly after airing.
• PFUJ calls this act a violation of media ethics.
• The incident is a breach of Article 19 of Pakistan's constitution.
• International media and human rights groups are condemning the action.
• The union demands an end to external influences on media houses.