ISLAMABAD, Nov 5 (APP): Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani Thursday categorically opposed any curbs on media and assured the National Assembly that media would not be gagged through any draconian law. “I direct the Information Minister not to accept any amendments that curb media and to ensure that media performs freely,” he said in a statement on floor of the House.
“I feel it imperative to take the House into confidence on the
government policy that no such amendments be introduce that bar the
media from freely functioning,” he added.
The Prime Minister said free media is part of the PPP’s manifesto as
well as part of the Charter of Democracy and “I myself and my leader
Benazir Bhutto protested when curbs were imposed on judiciary and media
after November 03, 2007 emergency.”
He said he had also protested against attack on Geo office. “We
protested against such curbs, we were sent to jails and cases were
registered against us.”
The PM said some amendments were proposed at Committee level in Pemra
laws but “I directed the Information Minister not to accept such
amendments that put curbs on media.”
Referring to Cyber Crimes Bill, the Prime Minister said, “I myself have
reservations on this and it should be referred back to Committee for
further negotiation. I also urge to seek public opinion on this bill
whether it is in favour of media and the people.”
He said first of all we are answerable to this House, then to the
Public Accounts Committee. The judiciary is active and independent and
can also take notice.
The Prime Minister said recommendations are being prepared on
accountability law. The opposition complained to me that their opinion
was not being considered properly and I have asked to refer the bill
back to committee for opinion of the opposition members in line with
the Charter of Democracy.
“I must say nobody is above the law, we all are accountable,” he said.
“Accountability Law will soon be brought before you for consideration.”
He said all of us across the divide have rendered great sacrifices for
restoration of democracy and we should avoid blanket allegations
against each other. “Already some people are not ready to tolerate us.
Levelling such allegations without concrete proof, will create an
impression that politicians are corrupt. Let us think about ourselves.
If we go, then who will come. Do not give an impression that we are not
capable.”
When the list of NRO beneficiaries will surface, it may include many other people than the politicians, “We want to strengthen institutions and whatever recommendations you
will present to strengthen institutions and supremacy of the
parliament, we shall be with you,” he added.
The Prime Minister said, “you guide us and if we do not accept your guidance, hold us responsible. We are answerable to you.”
He also referred to media reports about dealing with 58 (2) (B) and
17th amendment at the earliest and asked the members of the
Constitutional Reforms Committee to expedite the work.
Gilani expressed his concerns about sense of deprivation among
Balochistan people, saying the nation was not well aware of the
situation there.
He said joint sitting of the Parliament will be summoned to announce a package for Balochistan.
“We are here. We shall not hide anything from the House. We are answerable to the House,” he said.
