Addressing a media laws convention, the KP information aide highlights press freedom, criticizes federal policies, and defends provincial governance.
PESHAWAR: Special Assistant for Information in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Shafee Jan, said Thursday that a free and independent media is essential for the survival of democracy, warning that suppressing truth only strengthens misinformation.
Speaking as chief guest at a media laws convention held at the Peshawar Press Club, Jan described journalism as a “sacred and challenging profession,” acknowledging the sacrifices made by journalists. He emphasized that Article 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees freedom of expression to every citizen.
Jan alleged that media in the country has been controlled under various laws, claiming that several journalists were taken off air for speaking the truth under the current federal government. He contrasted this with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where he said freedom of expression is fully protected and the government responds to criticism through performance rather than retaliation.
He further criticized federal economic policies, linking them to rising inflation and unemployment, and accused authorities of withholding funds allocated to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Jan also pointed to unmet financial commitments for tribal districts following the FATA merger.
Highlighting political tolerance, he said the provincial assembly ensures more speaking time for opposition members and reaffirmed his party’s support for journalists on media regulation issues.
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