The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has declared a nationwide hunger strike from February 12 to 14, aiming to amplify its vigorous campaign for journalistic freedom against the oppressive Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
This decisive action follows extensive nationwide consultations, as stated by PFUJ President Afzal Butt.
Butt, along with PFUJ Secretary General Arshad Ansari, announced that hunger strike camps will be organized at press clubs throughout Pakistan, welcoming the involvement of political leaders, lawyers, human rights advocates, and representatives of civil society. The PFUJ leadership sternly cautioned the government that if the controversial law is not repealed, they are fully poised to launch a prolonged sit-in akin to previous movements championing press freedom.
“We are prepared to replicate history, just as we did during the press freedom struggle against General Zia-ul-Haq,” declared Afzal Butt, underscoring the PFUJ’s commitment to not allowing any curtailment of free speech and independent journalism.
Ansari resonated with this resolve, reminding the authorities that journalists had previously staged a 72-day sit-in opposing former president Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf. “Should this protest not achieve its aim, we will call for a sit-in before Parliament House,” he warned.