The Consortium for Press Freedom (CPF) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent amendments made by the Pakistan government to the already controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). These legislative changes, passed under the guise of tackling the spread of fake news, have raised significant concerns over the suppression of social media and broader digital rights.
According to the CPF, the amendments to PECA represent a clear and present danger to freedom of expression. The organization argues that rather than safeguarding public discourse, the government is leveraging these changes to control the flow of information, a move that could stifle the vibrant online community in Pakistan.
The Consortium for Press Freedom (CPF) @cpressfreedom has strongly condemned the recent amendments by the Pakistan government to the draconian Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). #PressFreedom #DigitalRights #Pakistan #PECAAct pic.twitter.com/9oad8Y1kQs
— Consortium for Press (@cpressfreedom) January 29, 2025
In an interview with Eurasia Media Network, Atif Shirazi, an Executive Member of the Parliamentary Association of Pakistan, echoed these sentiments. Shirazi stated, “Press Freedom in Pakistan is under threat by the PECA’s draconian law. These amendments are not about combating misinformation; they are about controlling narratives and silencing dissent.” His remarks highlight the growing unease within political circles regarding the government’s approach to digital governance.
The CPF, which has been advocating for press freedom since one decade emphasizes the need for a media environment that is diverse, accountable, and free from state censorship. The organization has called on international bodies and human rights advocates to join them in condemning these amendments, urging a reevaluation of the law in line with international standards of freedom of expression.
The CPF’s statement reflects a broader global conversation about the balance between regulating online content and preserving digital rights. As social media continues to grow as a primary source of news and public interaction, the amendments to PECA are seen by many as an attempt to curb this power, rather than enhance it through responsible governance.
This report comes at a time when freedom of the press and digital rights are under scrutiny in Pakistan. The CPF’s condemnation serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for transparency, accountability, and the protection of democratic values in the digital age.
