PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has extended warm congratulations to the newly elected leadership of the Peshawar Press Club, hailing the democratic process as a testament to strong journalistic values.
Democratic Traditions Upheld in Press Club Elections
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Information and Public Relations, Shafi Jan, issued a formal congratulatory message on Monday. He lauded the election of the new cabinet, led by President M Riaz, as a clear manifestation of democratic traditions within the journalistic community.
Shafi Jan highlighted that M Riaz's election to the prestigious position for a remarkable sixth time reflects the immense trust and confidence the journalist fraternity has in his leadership. He praised the journalists of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for consistently upholding the principles of impartial, responsible, and principled reporting.
Government's Commitment to a Free and Secure Press
The CM's aide emphasized that the provincial government firmly believes in freedom of expression and independent journalism. "We have ensured a free, secure, and enabling environment for journalists across the province," he stated, acknowledging the dedication of reporters who continue their work despite challenging circumstances.
He noted the vital role journalists play in promoting peace, stability, and social awareness. Shafi Jan urged the media to remain the voice of society's weak, marginalized, and oppressed segments and called on the new cabinet to strengthen journalistic values further.
Concrete Steps for Journalist Welfare
Addressing practical support, Shafi Jan stated that Chief Minister Sohail Afridi is fully aware of the issues journalists face and is taking concrete steps to address them. He listed several initiatives already introduced for the community's benefit:
- Journalists’ Endowment Fund
- Special Grants
- Other welfare facilities
He reaffirmed the KP government's full commitment to the protection, progress, and welfare of all journalists in the province.
In a separate message, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control, Syed Fakhar Jehan, also congratulated the newly elected bodies. He extended his felicitations to M Riaz of the Peshawar Press Club and the new office-bearers of the District Press Club Buner on their success in the annual elections.
Fakhar Jehan described the press clubs as effective and vibrant forums that promote responsible journalism. He stressed that free, responsible, and professional journalism is indispensable for strengthening democracy and enhancing public awareness.
The minister expressed hope that the newly-elected representatives would work for journalist welfare, improve professional capacity, and promote ethics. He conveyed his confidence that the new leadership would effectively inform the public about the government's welfare-oriented initiatives.
