Senior journalists and office-bearers of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) expressed concern over gaps in the legal framework governing journalist safety and freedom of expression at a convention held at the Hyderabad Press Club on Monday, January 5, 2026. PFUJ leadership emphasized upon undertaking a comprehensive review of the existing laws regulating freedom of speech and expression to formulate recommendations for reforms so that the constitutional guarantees under Articles 19 are realized in letter and spirit.
Organized by PFUJ in collaboration with the Hyderabad Union of Journalists and the Hyderabad Press Club, the convention brought together over 250 journalists, representatives of political parties, and civil society groups to discuss the implementation of media laws and regulations. The convention was supported by the Trust for Democratic Education and Accountability (TDEA) and facilitated by the Community Development Foundation (CDF).
PFUJ President Afzal Butt, senior leadership including Arshad Ansari, Mazhar Abbas, Khalid Khokhar, Nasir Zaidi, and others addressed the gathering and shared their views on strengthening protections for journalists. They underscored the need for strong legislation that protects journalists and is not prone to misuse. A detailed presentation on the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) was delivered by Jai Prakash Moorani, Vice President of the Hyderabad Press Club.
Representatives of several political parties and civil society organizations attended the convention, including the National Party, Awami Tehreek, Jamaat-e-Islami, Sindh United Party, Sindh Taraqi Pasand Party, Jiye Sindh Qaumi Mahaz, Jiye Sindh Mahaz, Awami Workers Party, and the Sindh Hari Committee. The Women Action Forum and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan were also represented.
PFUJ leaders said the suggestions gathered at the Hyderabad convention, along with inputs from other regional consultations, will be consolidated into proposed amendments and presented to policymakers at a national convention in Islamabad.
