Maryam Nawaz vows to protect journalists' rights and press freedom

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday reaffirmed her government's commitment to protecting journalists' rights and press freedom, describing media professionals as the eyes and ears of society and champions of truth. In her message on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, she said journalists raising their voices for truth and justice must be protected and allowed to perform their professional duties without fear. She said threats, violence and harassment against journalists were unacceptable and those involved in crimes against media professionals must be brought to justice. The chief minister said freedom of the press and freedom of expression were essential for a democratic society, while free and responsible journalism played a vital role in strengthening democratic institutions. She said journalists who exposed injustice, oppression and falsehood served society by highlighting public issues and giving voice to the people, adding that any attempt to silence the truth was an attack on fundamental rights. Maryam Nawaz reiterated that the Punjab government fully supported press freedom and the protection of journalists' professional rights and dignity. She also expressed her resolve to help homeless journalists realise their dream of owning homes. The chief minister maintained that journalists in Punjab were safe and said her government would continue to ensure an environment in which they could work freely and securely.