PML-N govt firmly believes in press freedom: Marriyum

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb has assured the journalist fraternity of resolution of all their issues, saying that the PML-N-led coalition government firmly believed in freedom of press and expression.

She was addressing the ‘Meet the Press’ programme at the Lahore Press Club on Sunday, according to Radio Pakistan.

She also praised sacrifices and services rendered by journalists for the restoration and strengthening of democracy in the country.

She also hailed the positive and effective role of the press clubs for the democratic process.

The federal minister said that during the PTI government's tenure, journalists were tortured, and kidnapped from their homes and TV programmes were shut down.

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She said that PTI Chairman Imran Khan is issuing fatwas [decree] to hide the “zero performance of his failed government”.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that his government had no intention to put any restriction on freedom of media and expression.

The premier also assured that journalists would be provided with the best possible protection against unwarranted actions under the PECA ordinance and other related laws.

He said that the ministry of law had already been tasked to review the PECA ordinance.

Praising the Council of Pakistan Newspapers Editors (CPNE) role for the freedom of media, strengthening of democracy, and evolution of democratic institutions in the country, the prime minister said that the government is keen to engage constructively with the CPNE and other media representative bodies for the protection of the rights of journalists and promotion of responsible journalism in the country.