Punjab Governor Raises Concerns over Defamation Law
Lahore, Pakistan – Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan has expressed his opposition to the controversial Punjab Defamation Bill, 2024, which was passed by the provincial legislature earlier this month.
Opposition to Defamation Law
Speaking to the media in Dubai on Sunday, Governor Haider stated that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), to which he belongs, stands against the defamation law. He emphasized that he had attempted to prevent its passage during his tenure as governor.
Automatic Enactment
Governor Haider explained that he had not signed the bill, but it will automatically become law after a period of 15 days. Nevertheless, he highlighted the need for legislation to address defamation on social media.
Dialogue with Media
The governor announced that he would meet with the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of media bodies upon his return to Pakistan to discuss their concerns about the defamation law.
Media Boycott
The central JAC of the media bodies has condemned the defamation law and announced a boycott of government affairs coverage, including official events and upcoming budgets. They have criticized the law as being against human values and have threatened legal action.
International Response
The media bodies have resolved to consult with political parties, bar councils, and international human rights organizations to garner support against the defamation law. They plan to stage protests and mobilize public sentiment against it.
Additional Information
* The Punjab Defamation Bill, 2024 was passed by the Punjab Assembly on May 20, 2024, despite strong opposition and backlash from journalists and rights groups.
* Governor Haider’s statement comes after interim Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan signed the bill into law on June 9, 2024, in the absence of Governor Haider.
* The law has sparked widespread criticism for its perceived threat to freedom of expression and the media’s ability to hold the powerful accountable.