The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued instructions for the national media ahead of the upcoming general elections, outlining various guidelines they are required to adhere to during the campaign and polling of general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the directives released on Friday apply to all satellite TV channel licensees (News and Current Affairs and Regional Languages Channels).
The notification said that in order to strengthen democracy, democratic norms, and the electoral process, it is the national obligation of all the citizens of Pakistan, institutions, organizations, and entities to extend utmost support and facilitation for conducting free, fair, and transparent elections.
In this connection, electronic media has a pivotal role in educating the masses, building and shaping fair opinion, and strengthening the democratic process required for the establishment of a democratic government in the country.
Therefore, all the licensees while airing their transmission prior to the General Elections must be mindful of the fact that no such content is aired which may create doubts in the minds of the general public with regard to the conduct of the general elections 2024 or sabotage elections through any negative, false news, information or report. Airing of any such news/ content would be deemed in violation of PEMRA Laws including the Code of Conduct 2015 and its provisions as follow:
“Airing of any such news/content would be deemed in violation of PEMRA Laws including the Code of Conduct 2015 in general and specially provisions,” it warned.
The regulator also asked the media houses to ensure that news, current affairs or documentary programmes shall present information in an “accurate and fair manner”.
“Any political or analytical programme, whether in the form of a talk show or otherwise, shall be conducted objectively ensuring representation of the concerned parties,” it added.
In talk shows or other similar programmes, the PEMRA said, the TV channels should ensure that the programme is conducted in an objective and unbiased manner.
“No licensee shall broadcast any live programme unless there is an effective delay mechanism put in place to ensure effective monitoring and editorial control in conformity with this Code,” it added.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) notified general elections on February 8, 2024. The electoral watchdog issued a notification of the date of the general election under Section 57 of the Election Act۔
The notification said that in light of the Supreme Court’s order, the general elections will take place on February 8, 2024.
The notification was issued by the ECP after, the Supreme Court declared February 8, 2024, as the date for holding general elections across the country after the ECP submitted the record of meeting with the president.
Reporter: Awais Kiyani