PTI UK condemns any curbs on media as these draconian actions are only taken by a government whose main aim is to control criticism on its policies. Rabia Zia stated that the freedom of media is a key element of 'true' democracy and throughout the history of Pakistan, the first institution to be targeted by a 'civilian' or 'military' dictatorship is the 'media'.
Media in Pakistan is not only educating the people but also increasing general awareness with regards to various social and political issues despite the fact that the literacy rate of Pakistan is one of the lowest in the world.
Today in the presence of a rubber stamp parliament and a friendly opposition, media is also playing the role of the opposition. Recently we have seen media highlight key issues such as energy and wheat crises; exposed Blackwater's presence in Pakistan; translated the Kerry Lugar Bill; openly opined and condemned NRO etc. The various talk shows have brought politicians to the public and have allowed people to assess the 'leaders' of Pakistan. Of course there are policies that need to be adhered to by the media and all material needs to be backed by evidence.
The Doha Declaration of May 2009 on Media Freedom stresses that independent and pluralistic media are essential for ensuring fundamental elements of good governance and human rights-based development.
Thus we request the present government to stop threatening anchorpersons and to stop influencing transmissions of Pakistani owned channels. We classify all political parties which support these curbs as undemocratic and with skeletons to hide. Rabia Zia Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf
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