KARACHI: Ambassador Mian Mubeen Akhtar of Justice Help Line International Europe has strongly opposed the contentious PECA Amendment Bill 2025, expressing full support for the ongoing protests by the journalist community in Pakistan.

"A free press is the cornerstone of any democratic society, and no law or policy that restricts freedom of expression can be accepted," Ambassador Akhtar emphasized.

He praised the efforts of Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) President Afzal Butt and other journalists who have taken to the streets to protect press freedom. Ambassador Akhtar urged the government to take the concerns of journalists seriously, engage in meaningful consultations, and refrain from implementing any laws that stifle media freedom and freedom of expression. "A robust and independent media is the guarantee of a progressive and transparent society," he stressed. Ambassador Akhtar expressed solidarity with all journalists and assured them of his full support in protecting their rights.

He advised the journalist community to articulate their demands clearly and strongly, utilize legal and constitutional avenues to amplify their voice, and collaborate with international media organizations and human rights groups to garner support.