Journalists rally to mark World Press Freedom Day

PESHAWAR: The journalists on Saturday took out a rally in connection with the World Press Freedom Day.

Led by PPC president M Riaz, KhUJ president Kashifuddin Syed, Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) president Shamim Shahid, senior leader of the Electronic Media Association Mehmood Jan Babar, the rally participants gathered outside the Peshawar Press Club.

A large number of journalists from print, electronic, and digital media participated in the rally. The participants carried banners and placards bearing slogans in support of press freedom and the protection of journalists. They chanted slogans, calling on the government to take effective measures for journalists’ safety and the independence of the media.

Addressing the rally, M Riaz, Shamim Shahid and Kashifuddin Syed stated that working as a journalist in Pakistan has become increasingly difficult due to political pressure, economic hardships, censorship, and other challenges. They stressed that the media plays a crucial role in democratic societies by informing the public and promoting accountability.

“Without a free press, democracy cannot function,” said Kashifuddin Syed. The speakers said that the current government has failed to ensure a truly free media environment. They urged the authorities to uphold the principles of press freedom and take concrete actions to protect journalists and promote responsible journalism across the country.