Press and Legal Experts Urge Repeal of Controversial PECA Amendments in Pakistan

A coalition of lawyers and journalists in Pakistan has called for the repeal of controversial amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). They argue the amendments threaten freedom of expression and contravene constitutional rights, demanding immediate governmental action and safeguarding of independent journalism.

In a significant development, Pakistani lawyers and journalists have ramped up pressure on the federal government, demanding the repeal of recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The Sindh High Court recently issued a verdict, directing that petitions challenging the amendments be heard by a constitutional bench, stirring further debate.

Key figures converged at a meeting organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) to address the issue. They resolved unanimously that the new PECA amendments compromise democratic principles by restricting freedom of expression, which they view as fundamental to a healthy democracy.

The gathering strongly criticized the PECA (Amendment) Act of 2025 as defective legislation, infringing on Article 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Participants warned that the legislation endangers media freedom, emphasizing the essential role of independent journalism in preserving democratic values and transparency.