Peshawar: Expressing deep concern over the alleged threats of murder and abduction issued to journalists from the Orakzai Press Club, the Khyber Union of Journalists (KhUJ ) has demanded that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, Inspector General (IG) of Police and District Police Officer (DPO) of Orakzai take immediate notice and ensure full protection for the journalists.
In a joint statement, Khyber Union of Journalists President, Kashif-ud-Din Syed, General Secretary Irshad Ali, and other office-bearers noted that, according to reports, journalists including Orakzai Press Club President Shaheed Khan Orakzai, Chairman Khan Zaman Orakzai, General Secretary Isar-ul-Haq, and Union of Journalists General Secretary, Ismatullah have received alleged threats of murder and abduction; a situation described as extremely alarming and condemnable.
President Kashif-ud-Din stated that journalists highlight public issues while performing their duties, and no individual can be permitted to threaten or harass journalists, or endanger their lives and safety, under the pretext of differences of opinion or grievances.
The Khyber Union of Journalists demanded that the DPO of Orakzai take immediate action on the application submitted by the journalists, conduct a transparent and impartial investigation into the alleged threats, and proceed according to the law if allegations against any individual are proven.
The Union also demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged theft of valuable equipment from the Orakzai District Press Club and insisted that those responsible be brought to justice.
It was stated that threatening journalists or obstructing their path while issuing alleged threats of abduction and murder constitutes an attack on press freedom and the fundamental rights of journalists.
It is the responsibility of state institutions to ensure the safety of journalists and take effective measures to prevent such incidents.
Expressing complete solidarity with the journalists of the Orakzai Press Club, the Khyber Union of Journalists affirmed that it would stand by its colleagues in the face of any threat or intimidation.