Editors’ Council Expresses Alarm Over Army’s Entry Into Media Office
The Editors’ Council has voiced serious concern over recent incidents of intimidation and harassment targeting journalists and media organisations, warning that such actions pose a grave threat to press freedom and the democratic process ahead of the upcoming national elections.
Referring to the army’s entry into the office of a registered digital media outlet on February 7, the council described the incident as deeply concerning. It stated that if any irregularities had occurred in news dissemination by the outlet, they should have been addressed through proper legal procedures rather than arbitrary measures.
In a statement issued yesterday, the council noted that over the past 18 months, the government, the army chief, and heads of public institutions have repeatedly spoken about efforts to restore the damaged reputation of law enforcement agencies. However, incidents like this send a negative signal to voters and media professionals at a critical time before the election.
The Editors’ Council also warned that irresponsible journalism and the spread of misinformation could weaken the credibility of election coverage. Stressing the need for accountability, it urged the government, security forces, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety of journalists and to fulfill their responsibility in protecting democratic values.
