ISLAMABAD, 15 October 2026: Independent media watchdogFreedom Network [FNPK] has called on the federal government to ensure that the proclamation of Governor’s Rule and emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province does not lead to the suspension, curtailment or arbitrary restriction of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, freedom of the press and the public’s right to information.
The federal government imposed direct rule and emrgency in the province on Sunday – 11 October 2026 – to render the provincial cabinet of Sohail Afridi and Provincial Legislative Assembly ineffective.
FNPK stressed that any extraordinary constitutional or administrative measures must remain subject to constitutional safeguards, democratic accountability and the rule of law. “Exceptional circumstances must not become a pretext for restricting independent journalism, silencing dissent or limiting citizens’ access to information of public importance,” the organization said in a press release issued on on Thursday – 15 October 2026.
“Journalists and media organisations must be allowed to report freely and independently on the implementation of Governor’s Rule and emergency measures, the decisions of the authorities and their implications for citizens. Media freedom is particularly critical during periods of political uncertainty and heightened security concerns, when the public needs timely, accurate and verified information to understand developments affecting their lives,” the press release went on to say.
“Fundamental rights are not a privilege that governments may grant or withdraw at their discretion. Any extraordinary measures must operate within the Constitution and respect the rights and freedoms guaranteed to citizens.”
Freedom Network urged the federal and provincial authorities to refrain from imposing blanket restrictions on media coverage, internet access, digital communications and the dissemination of information.
It also called on protestors of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, law enforcement agencies and government officials to ensure that journalists were not subjected to intimidation, harassment, arbitrary detention, violence or reprisals for performing their professional duties.
The organisation further called for transparency in all decisions taken under the emergency arrangements, including clear communication of the legal basis, scope and duration of any restrictions. Any limitations on fundamental rights must meet applicable constitutional and legal requirements and must not be broader than legally justified.
Freedom Network underscored that the public’s right to know is indispensable to democratic governance, particularly when exceptional powers were exercised. “Independent reporting enables citizens to assess government actions, scrutinise the use of authority and hold public institutions accountable,” the press release said.
The organisation called on the federal government to reaffirm its commitment to constitutionalism, media freedom and the protection of human rights, while urging political stakeholders to resolve differences through democratic and constitutional means.
Freedom Network reiterated that the security and stability of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could not be achieved by undermining civil liberties. “Protecting fundamental rights, ensuring journalists’ safety and preserving independent media are essential to maintaining public trust, democratic resilience and the rule of law.” Ends
Note: This PR is AI-edited under human supervision.
