Opposition leaders, including PTI’s Omer Ayub, Barrister Gohar and Shibli Faraz, held a press conference outside Parliament House, rejecting the government's actions and vehemently criticising recent legislative actions, particularly the amendments to the PECA Act.
Omer Ayub accused the government of suppressing voices and undermining democracy through "draconian, black laws", particularly the PECA Act. "Shehbaz Sharif wants to create a digital nation, but first they should control the sharks (in reference to the submarine cable cuts that affect the internet)," he remarked.
“The laws being made will target the media, the opposition, and even the government itself. They will benefit someone else,” he said. He also highlighted the lack of meaningful dialogue, adding, “The government must take negotiations seriously, or it will be the one at a loss.”
He further said that the PTI founder ended the negotiation process, as the judicial commission was not formed as per their demand. He also condemned the weakening of the judiciary through the 26th Amendment, alleging that judges were divided and pitted against each other. "Attempts were made to arrest Sahibzada Hamid Raza," he alleged.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar echoed these concerns, stating that the PECA Act is being used to stifle journalism and weaken democracy, adding that the law is tantamount to suppressing the voice of journalists.
“We stand with our journalist brothers against the PECA Act. Legislation must align with the Constitution, but this government is passing laws to strengthen its grip on power,” he asserted.
The PTI chairman rejected the government’s recent legislative actions, including the passage of 37 laws without discussion and eight laws in just 11 minutes during a recent session.
Senator Shibli Faraz labelled the PECA amendments as draconian and accused the government of targeting media freedom. “These laws are not for Pakistan’s betterment but for a specific agenda. The silence of representatives on these legislations is shameful,” he said.
The opposition leader also highlighted broader issues, including Pakistan’s declining human rights record, the exodus of youth abroad, and the government’s failure to address critical challenges. “People are drowning in boats, and the youth are leaving the country. Now, laws will be made even on breathing,” Faraz remarked. "Government is bringing laws to strengthen its grip."
Barrister Salman Akram Raja, speaking separately at the Islamabad High Court, echoed these sentiments, calling for the formation of an independent commission to address the May 9, 2023 incidents. “The current legislation goes against public interest, and we cannot support the trampling of public opinion,” he said.
The opposition reiterated its commitment to upholding democratic principles and freedom of expression while rejecting the government’s legislative practices. They warned of intensified resistance if the government continues to sideline dialogue and transparency.
