PBC seeks balanced reporting to prevent malicious campaigns

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) on Monday, while acknowledging media independence, stressed for maintaining balance to prevent the dissemination of malicious and slanderous campaigns.

In a statement issued here PBC Vice Chairman Riazat Ali Sahar and Farooq Hamid Naek PBC Executive Committee Chairman, vehemently reiterate their unwavering commitment to upholding the independence of the judiciary and ensuring the freedom of expression in Pakistan.

They said that these foundational principles are integral to a vibrant democracy and are essential for the protection of fundamental rights and the rule of law. At the same time, they expressed their concerns that professional journalists, who are discharging their duties within the parameters of judiciary, are facing threats and impediments against their fundamental rights and condemn the move to suppress the free and independent journalism voice, through ulterior motives, which is violation of constitutional rights as enshrined in the Constitution i.e. rights to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19 within their professional obligations.

They said that 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”, they maintained.

They said that it is crucial that judges are able to fulfill their duties impartially, devoid of any influence or bias, and in strict adherence to the law and principles of justice. They vowed to defend the independence of the judiciary and the freedom of expression, and it will continue to monitor developments closely and take all necessary steps to uphold these fundamental principles. “It is only through a robust commitment to these principles that we can safeguard democracy, ensure accountability, and promote the rule of law in Pakistan, they added.