Jamaat-e-Islami rejects PECA ordinance, calls for reconsideration

KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Pakistan has strongly rejected the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) ordinance, calling for a reconsideration of the law. Addressing a press conference in Karachi, JI Pakistan Emir Hafiz Naeemur-Rehman expressed his opposition to the ordinance, stating that the party does not accept the government’s move.

Hafiz Naeemur-Rehman pointed out that similar ordinances had been introduced by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in 2016 and later by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government. He highlighted that the PECA ordinance had previously been enforced through the Punjab government, and during the PTI regime, numerous journalists were forcibly abducted while selective journalists were used to shape particular narratives.

While acknowledging the importance of curbing fake news, Hafiz Naeemur-Rehman emphasized that this should not come at the cost of press freedom. He criticized the government’s failure to consult with relevant stakeholders before introducing the PECA ordinance and expressed solidarity with journalists who have been affected by the law. He also called for the development of a code of conduct that would safeguard freedoms while addressing issues such as fake news.

The JI leader also took the opportunity to comment on the ongoing situation in Gaza. He expressed concern over the devastation in the region, stating that although Gaza has been reduced to rubble, the Palestinian people have shown remarkable resilience. Hafiz Naeemur-Rehman added that Israel had faced significant setbacks in Gaza, further highlighting the strength and perseverance of the Palestinian resistance.