Maulana Fazl ur Rehman vows to support journalists in PECA bill issue

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazl ur Rehman on Monday assured journalists of his full support regarding the contentious PECA Bill.

During his visit to the parliamentary reporters’ office at Parliament House, he met with journalists, highlighting the strong link between politics and journalism, stating that the two have always been closely connected.

Reaffirming his stance on the PECA Bill, Maulana Fazl ur Rehman stressed the need for mutual respect and understanding between lawmakers and the media.

He noted that laws are often created to address specific circumstances but may lose their relevance over time, citing the example of the 26th Amendment.

Speaking on the PECA law, he emphasized that journalists should have been consulted during the legislative process and that their input should have been considered. He criticized the decision-making process, stating that the President should have sought opinions from journalists and media organizations before approving the law.

The JUI-F leader further revealed that he had advised the President not to sign the bill and to hold a meeting with journalists. He added that President Asif Ali Zardari had assured him that he would discuss the matter with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for further deliberation.