PESHAWAR
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, on Saturday paid rich tribute to the journalists and media professionals who continue to uphold the values of truth, accountability, and democratic integrity often at great personal cost.
In his official message, on the occasion of ‘World Press Freedom Day,’ the Governor Kundi described press freedom as one of the foundational pillars of a democratic society.
“A free press is not a luxury it is a necessity. It is the lifeblood of any functioning democracy, providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions and hold those in power accountable,” he said.
The Governor acknowledged that the journalists of Pakistan, and particularly those from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have operated in some of the most difficult and dangerous environments in the world.
“Despite threats, intimidation, and even loss of life, our journalists have shown extraordinary bravery and resilience,” he said. “They have reported from the frontlines of conflict, exposed injustice, amplified marginalized voices, and remained steadfast in their duty to the truth.”
He said that Journalists are the guardians of democracy, ensuring that power remains accountable and the public stays informed. A free and independent press is essential for the health and strength of any democratic society, he added.
Governor Kundi expressed concern over the growing challenges to press freedom, both globally and domestically. He pointed to issues such as censorship, harassment, digital surveillance, and the spread of misinformation as emerging threats to credible journalism.
“We are living in an age where truth itself is under attack. This makes the role of a free, independent, and ethical press more critical than ever,” he remarked.
He further emphasized that the safety and freedom of journalists must be a national priority.
“We cannot allow fear or coercion to dictate the press narrative. A society that stifles its journalists stifles its future,” he said. “government is committed to fostering an environment where journalists can work without fear and with full constitutional protection.”
However, Governor Kundi also highlighted that with great freedom comes great responsibility. He urged the media to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, objectivity, and integrity.
“Press freedom must go hand-in-hand with ethical journalism. In a time of polarized discourse, the media must act as a bridge, not a barrier uniting, not dividing,” he added.
In his concluding remarks, the Governor paid homage to journalists who have laid down their lives in the line of duty.
“Their sacrifice is a solemn reminder of the price some have paid for the truth. We owe it to them to safeguard the values they stood for,” he said.
“As we observe World Press Freedom Day, let us renew our collective commitment to protect and promote the freedom of the press. It is through a strong, independent media that we can truly build a more informed, just, and democratic Pakistan,” the Governor concluded.
