Protests erupted across Pakistan as journalist bodies and rights activists reacted vehemently to the recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has designated January 31, 2025, as 'Black Day' to highlight growing concerns over the legislation, which many fear threatens freedom of expression.
The PECA Amendment Bill, passed by the National Assembly on January 29, has sparked widespread outrage among media organizations. The bill seeks to regulate social media platforms more heavily and introduces severe penalties for individuals disseminated information deemed false or fake, igniting fears of censorship.
“The amendments represent a transparent attempt to tighten control over digital expression and internet freedom under the guise of curbing misinformation,” stated the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) following President Zardari's approval of the amendments, emphasizing the potential for abuse.
On January 31, journalists and media organizations across the nation planned to stage protests. Black flags were set to be hoisted at press clubs, with journalists wearing black armbands as symbols of discontent. “What emergency has arisen in the country? They feel the need to strangle journalism and suppress press freedom,” questioned Arshad Ansari, PFUJ Secretary General.
Despite repeated calls from the Joint Action Committee (JAC) for consultation, President Zardari moved forward with the legislation, bypassing voices from the media community. “Despite the repeated appeals of the Joint Action Committee, the president signed the bill without giving them an opportunity to meet, which is regrettable,” remarked PFUJ President Afzal Butt.
The PECA Amendment Bill was presented with aims such as establishing the Digital Rights Protection Authority to deregister social media platforms deemed unlawful. It also imposes harsh penalties of imprisonment for up to three years and fines for spreading misinformation, captivating concerns from journalist groups.
Many journalists have raised alarms about how this legislation serves as a government tool for oppression. Reports indicate protests were held across multiple cities including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Quetta, with many journalists expressing dismay over the swiftness of the bill’s passage.
Bishop Azad Marshall shared his advocacy for regulating social media to combat hate speech but warned against potential harm, saying, “We support regulation of social media for curbing hate speech and fake news, but it should not be misused to victimize innocent people.” This sentiment reflects the widespread apprehension among advocates for free speech.
The situation has caught the attention of not just local media organizations but various international bodies, which are condemning the legislation as draconian. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has already committed to utilizing legal avenues to contest the amendment, today declaring its formation of a “grand coalition for freedom of expression,” known to include major rights groups and journalist coalitions.
While the legislation has been presented as necessary to combat disinformation, its rapid passage has raised questions about oversight and accountability within the government. Critics stress the necessity of wider consultation, with one participant commenting, “Participants observed with great disappointment the hasty process underlying this bill.”
With protests intensifying and calls for the repeal of the PECA Amendment Law mounting, journalists and civil society organizations remain steadfast. Many are ready to call for sit-ins outside the Parliament House, pressing the need for the law's reconsideration and potential repeal.
The ramifications of this bill, particularly concerning freedom of speech and expression, will undoubtedly be consequential, with numerous journalist bodies pledging to continue their fight against what they've termed 'black laws.'
With international observers keeping a watchful eye, the actions taken by journalists this week signal both unity and resolve against what they perceive as repressive legislation. The future of press freedom hangs precariously as the government weighs whether to heed the calls for consultation and reconsideration.