IFJ urges immediate review of PECA by SC

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has called on the Supreme Court to urgently review the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), citing what it says are escalating threats to press freedom and the safety of journalists in the country.

In a letter to the chief justice of Pakistan, the IFJ says that media professionals in Pakistan are facing mounting dangers while performing their professional duties. It points out that journalists are being subjected to legal cases, harassment, and threats under the PECA law.

The IFJ also sent copies of the letter to the prime minister, the chief justice of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), and the president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ). It reminds that Pakistan's is a signatory to international conventions, which obligate it to protect fundamental rights.

The IFJ letter has noted that recent amendments to PECA have granted the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) powers to act without a formal complaint - a move, it warns, could be used to silence dissent and target journalists arbitrarily.

"These powers pose a serious risk of suppressing independent journalism and freedom of expression," the letter said, urging the top judge to direct the government to amend the law in consultation with PFUJ and other relevant stakeholders.

The IFJ expressed concern over the bypassing of high courts through direct appeals to the apex court, calling it a "circumvention of judicial process."

The IFJ highlighted the reported killing of at least seven journalists in Pakistan over the past year, while no perpetrators are convicted in cases involving attacks or threats. It cites the latest Press Freedom Report, which has documented 34 violations, including physical assaults, harassment, online hate campaigns, and intimidation.