The Pakistan Bar Council on Monday expressed concerns over the threats and impediments that professional journalists are facing for discharging their duties within the parameters of the judiciary and condemned the move to suppress free and independent journalism voice even as it sought to draw a delicate line between free speech and the dissemination of malicious and slanderous campaigns.
This was expressed in a statement issued by the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) in a statement issued on Monday. The statement came in the wake of comments made by the Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa over the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) registering FIRs and arresting journalists while forcing them to disclose their sources of information. PBC Vice Chairman Riazat Ali Sahar and PBC Executive Committee Chairman Farooq Hamid Naek signed the statement.
They vehemently reiterated their unwavering commitment to upholding the independence of the judiciary and ensuring the freedom of expression in Pakistan.
"These foundational principles are integral to a vibrant democracy and are essential for the protection of fundamental rights and the rule of law," the statement held.
They expressed concerns over how professional journalists, who are discharging their duties within the parameters of judiciary, are facing threats and impediments against their fundamental rights. They condemned the move to suppress free and independent journalism voice, through ulterior motives, which violates the constitutional rights of journalists as enshrined in the Constitution, such as rights to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19 within their professional obligations.
The PBC clarified that while media independence is paramount, there exists a delicate balance that must be maintained to prevent the dissemination of malicious and slanderous campaigns.
"No individual, including those within the media, should be permitted to engage in unethical practices or levy baseless allegations, particularly against esteemed judges of the superior judiciary," the PBC said, adding, "It is crucial that judges are able to fulfil their duties impartially, devoid of any influence or bias, and in strict adherence to the law and principles of justice."
The Pakistan Bar Council said it remains vigilant in its efforts to defend the independence of the judiciary and the freedom of expression. It will continue to monitor developments closely and take all necessary steps to uphold these fundamental principles. Only through a robust commitment to these principles can we safeguard democracy, ensure accountability, and promote the rule of law in Pakistan.