By NNN-APP,
Islamabad : 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.