Imran Khan Accuses State of Silencing Media, Suppressing Journalists

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan alleges that the state has forced the media into silence and suppressed journalists over the last two years. Khan, currently jailed, highlighted various cases of harassment and violence against journalists. He also criticized the recently introduced Punjab Defamation Act 2024 for curtailing press freedom.

In a striking revelation, former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, currently imprisoned, has accused the state of muzzling media and targeting dissenting journalists over the past two years. He claimed that journalistic freedom has been severely curtailed under oppressive measures.

Khan is confined in the high-security Adiala Jail since his arrest ten months ago. He used his X account to assert that the media has long been vulnerable to state control, with critical journalists facing severe repercussions.

This statement follows the controversial 'Punjab Defamation Act 2024,' which was recently introduced by the Punjab government headed by Maryam Nawaz. Khan condemned this legislation, calling it a major threat to press freedom and democracy.

Highlighting specific cases, Khan referred to journalists who were murdered or forced into exile due to their criticism of the Pakistan Army's involvement in politics. Examples include the exile and subsequent murder of Arshad Sharif, and forced expatriation of Dr Moeed Pirzada, Sabir Shakir, and Wajahat Saeed Khan.

Khan emphasized that this systematic oppression is a blatant violation of the Constitution and international commitments. He labeled these actions as direct attacks on democracy and freedom of expression.

The Punjab Defamation Act 2024 is currently challenged by Pakistan’s journalist bodies in the Lahore High Court.