PFUJ seeks apology from PMLN following leaked audio

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 5 January 2022

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists has condemned abusive remarks made by PMLN leaders against journalists in a leaked audio. They demand an apology and respect for media personnel.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has shown serious concern over a leaked audio clip of two senior PMLN leaders using abusive and undignified language against senior journalists and analysts of Geo News.

The union said in a statement that it was alarming as it shows the mindset of the political leadership against media and independent journalists.

President PFUJ Shahzada Zulfiqar and Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi showed anguish over the telephonic conversation allegedly between Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Pervez Rashid, who was information minister during the previous PMLN government. PFUJ said that “it is strange that in government these political leaders work against freedom of the press and free speech, but for mustering support during days of opposition they speak for freedom of media.”

PFUJ leadership, while commenting on the language used by Parvez Rashid, who is a seasoned and respected politician, said, “such a language was not expected from him but instead of defending the freedom of press and expression, for pleasing his leadership, used derogatory words against journalists.”

“We want an apology from PMLN leadership and respect for media and media personalities and assurance for ensuring freedom of press and expression,” they said.