Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed their commitment to upholding a free and responsible press in separate messages issued on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, observed on May 3.
President Asif Ali Zardari acknowledged the critical role of the media in fostering dialogue, addressing key social, economic and environmental significance, uncovering corruption and advocating for the marginalised.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression while ensuring the media is not used for disseminating fake news, propaganda, or political agendas. He commended the Pakistani media for its responsible reporting in response to India’s recent water-related aggression and unfounded allegations, highlighting their role in presenting facts and defending the national narrative.
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom, journalist protection, and professional development in his message on World Press Freedom Day. He emphasised that a responsible and informed media is vital for addressing national challenges and strengthening democracy, transparency, and human rights. Tarar highlighted the longstanding role of Pakistani media in promoting the rule of law and public awareness.
He praised journalists for courageously exposing human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Israeli atrocities in Palestine. Acknowledging the media’s responsible stance on national issues, he said it plays a key role in safeguarding Pakistan’s global image, national security, and unity. Tarar reiterated that freedom of expression and access to information are cornerstones of democracy and assured that all media institutions have the right to operate freely.
Former Senator Farhatullah Babar, President of the Pakistan Peoples Party Human Rights Cell, expressed concern over the deteriorating state of press freedom in Pakistan. Citing the Reporters Without Borders 2025 World Press Freedom Index, which placed Pakistan at 158th out of 180 countries, he warned that journalism had become a dangerous profession in the country. He criticised recent amendments to the PECA law, alleging misuse of legal powers to target journalists.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her message, described press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy and paid tribute to journalists for their sacrifices. She said comprehensive steps were being taken to protect journalists and pledged efforts to provide housing for the journalist community.
In a separate statement, the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) accused the government of targeting journalists through harassment, censorship, and job terminations. The party called for an end to restrictions on digital platforms and the restoration of freedom for pro-PTI voices in the media.
Sindh Senior Minister for Information Sharjeel Inam Memon said the Sindh government, under the leadership of President Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, had taken significant steps for the protection of journalists, including the establishment of the Sindh Information Commission and a Journalist Welfare Fund. He reiterated the provincial government’s unwavering support for free expression and independent journalism.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, lawmakers and journalist organisations called for the passage of the Right of Access to Information law to support media freedom in the region. At an event held in Gilgit, journalists raised concerns over delays in media policy implementation and the alleged misuse of government advertisements.