Senior journalists, their unions, and civil society rejected the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and other discriminatory laws, describing them as repressive and demanding their immediate repeal. They also opposed the 2025 amendments to PECA 2016, which made certain violations cognizable offences. Governor of Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan supported the call for repeal, emphasizing the need to consult all stakeholders before enacting laws. Participants argued that the law was intended to pressure journalists and restrict freedom of expression. Meanwhile, Punjab Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari questioned what alternative would address online abuse and trolling in the absence of PECA.
These views were expressed at the Provincial Convention on Media Laws, Regulations, and Ethics held at the Lahore Press Club, organized by the Punjab Union of Journalists in collaboration with the Lahore Press Club and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ).
A resolution passed at the convention recalled the government’s assurance that PECA would not be used against journalists and demanded the immediate withdrawal of all related cases without conditions. It also called for a review of the law to prevent political misuse, along with payment of outstanding salaries, job security, and protection of freedom of speech for media workers.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor stressed that dialogue is essential for lawmaking and should include all stakeholders. He added that accountability should extend beyond politicians to those holding assets abroad.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari announced that the government would audit media houses to assess advertisement allocations and salary payments, warning that outlets failing to pay employees could face closure. She urged journalists to hold accountable individuals involved in propaganda for financial gain and supported making advertising data publicly available. While expressing support for journalists affected by layoffs, she questioned whether repealing PECA would leave a gap in addressing online misconduct and national security concerns.
Senior journalist Hussain Haqqani argued that existing laws are sufficient to regulate the media and called PECA unnecessary. PFUJ leader Arshad Ansari stated that a draft alternative law would be presented on May 3, 2026, warning of protests if reforms are not considered.
