From Zia’s censorship to PECA: Pakistan’s evolving battle for press freedom

Pakistan’s press freedom is at a crossroads as the government moves forward with the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), a controversial law that journalists and civil rights groups say will stifle dissent.

In his latest episode of On My Radar, veteran journalist Kamran Khan revisited past struggles for press freedom alongside renowned journalist Mazhar Abbas, reflecting on decades of state-imposed censorship.

Kamran Khan recalled how he and other journalists, including Abbas, navigated strict media controls under General Ziaul Haq’s military rule in the 1980s. He noted that despite heavy censorship, reporters found ways to deliver news to the public.

“In the era of Zia’s martial law, press restrictions were severe, but journalists like us worked discreetly to inform the people,” Khan said. “I started my career at Daily News, while Mazhar Abbas was with Daily Star. Even in that repressive environment, we remained committed to our duty.”

Abbas, widely recognized for his independent journalism, has remained impartial throughout his career, resisting political affiliations. His work in organizations like the Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ) and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has made him a prominent advocate for press freedom.

PECA and the return of censorship

The discussion comes as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government recently passed the PECA bill in both the National Assembly and Senate, despite protests from journalists and opposition parties.

The bill introduces severe penalties for spreading “fake news” or damaging someone’s reputation online, including up to three years in prison and fines of up to PKR 2 million.

The law also establishes the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority, which will oversee the registration of digital platforms and have the power to revoke licenses. A controversial clause, Section 29, prevents legal challenges against decisions made under the act.

The move has been met with widespread condemnation. Press organizations, including the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS), Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), and PFUJ, have labeled PECA a “draconian law” designed to silence critical voices. They have launched nationwide protests, with Abbas actively participating in demonstrations.

A history of suppression

Khan emphasized that censorship in Pakistan has not been limited to military regimes. Even during civilian governments, successive administrations have sought to control the press.

“Whether it was Ziaul Haq, Pervez Musharraf, or democratic governments under the PPP, PML-N, or PTI, authorities have always attempted to curb freedom of expression,” Khan said.

He also pointed to the government’s recent moves to tighten control over digital platforms. In addition to PECA, authorities have allocated PKR 30 billion in the latest budget for the development of an internet firewall, aimed at restricting access to certain websites and online content. The government has also attempted to ban virtual private networks (VPNs), though with limited success.

Journalists fight back

Despite mounting restrictions, Pakistan’s journalistic community remains defiant. Organizations such as PFUJ have vowed to challenge PECA in court and continue street protests.

Khan and Abbas concluded their discussion by reflecting on their shared experiences of covering political turmoil and press crackdowns.

“As journalists, we have always faced threats—be it from military rulers or democratic governments,” Abbas said. “But our job is to report the truth, no matter the consequences.”