Marriyum Rejects PMDA, Promises Media Freedom

News Desk

Islamabad: Information and Broadcasting Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has announced that the government will not establish the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA), promising instead to review existing media laws through consultation with journalists and industry stakeholders.

Addressing her first press conference after assuming office, the minister said the PMDA proposal had been abandoned and no additional regulatory body was required alongside the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA).

She said the government would not introduce any legislation that could restrict constitutional freedoms, particularly freedom of expression, and described the earlier PMDA proposal as unacceptable.

Marriyum said a joint action committee comprising representatives from various media sectors would continue working to develop a regulatory framework that was practical and acceptable to all stakeholders.

PECA Review Planned

Discussing the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), the minister said the previous government’s amendments had been challenged in court and the government would now review the 2016 law in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

She said the objective would be to create effective regulation of social media while ensuring that freedom of expression remained protected.

The minister stressed that a free media was essential for democratic development, accountability and good governance, adding that the government wanted to address challenges faced by journalists, including financial difficulties, threats, restrictions and job insecurity.

Promise of Different Approach

Criticising the previous government’s media policies, Marriyum accused it of using legal measures to silence criticism and political opposition.

She said the new administration wanted to move away from confrontation and intimidation, assuring media organisations that constructive criticism would be welcomed.

The minister also pledged implementation of the Journalist Protection Law and said journalists’ safety would remain a priority.

Focus on Transparency 

Marriyum announced plans to establish a commission under the Right to Information Act to improve access to public information.

She said information management had become increasingly important in an era of digital communication and information warfare, making the role of the Information Ministry more significant.

Responding to questions, she said legal action would be taken against those involved in wrongdoing but assured that innocent people would not be targeted.

She also said the government would take action against online campaigns targeting state institutions and journalists, while adding that criticism of government policies would remain acceptable.

Digital Media Wing Shut Down

The minister confirmed that the Digital Media Wing had been closed, explaining that the ministry’s Cyber Wing would continue handling related matters.

She said the government’s immediate priorities included reducing inflation, creating employment opportunities and addressing energy shortages.

Marriyum also said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would soon address the nation and outline the government’s priority agenda.

Earlier, the minister met media representatives and listened to their concerns, promising continued engagement with journalists and media organisations.