Unjust allegations: Journalists condemn lawyer’s remarks

Demand Musharraf's lawyer Ahmed Raza Kasuri produce evidence or face legal action.

ISLAMABAD:

Dozens of journalists on Friday staged a protest against ex-president Pervez Musharraf’s defence counsel Ahmed Raza Kasuri for hurling accusations against a journalist.

Kasuri got infuriated and threatened to teach a lesson to journalists, when one of their colleagues asked him why his client did not appear before the court despite claiming to be a commando.

While holding banners and placards inscribed with slogans against Kasuri and his client, the journalists gathered in front of the National Press Club and raised their voice against his unprofessional conduct.

The journalists announced they would hold protests in front of the Supreme Court on every hearing of Musharraf’s case for insulting the journalist.

On Thursday, when journalist Ali Sher asked Kasuri why the commando general did not appear before the court to face the treason case, he got furious and alleged that the journalist was dishonest. “You seem to be an Indian agent,” Kasuri had said adding that he and his colleagues were involved in yellow journalism (receiving payments).

President Pakistan Union of Journalists (PFUJ) Afzal Butt led the demonstration, which was attended by journalists of the twin cities.

They took strong exception to Kauri’s remarks, saying if he had any evidence against the journalist, he should produce it before them or any other independent forum, or face legal action.

National Press Club President Shaheryar Khan said that journalists had every right to ask questions. “We cannot compromise on our duty. No one will be allowed to stifle journalists’ voices,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 18^th, 2014.