PFUJ declares ‘Black Day’ to protest PECA amendments on Friday

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has announced a nationwide “Black Day” on Friday in protest against amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari stated that journalists across the country would hoist black flags at press clubs and union offices, alongside holding protest rallies against the controversial amendments.

The leaders criticised the government for restricting press freedom, highlighting that while in opposition, the ruling party had strongly advocated for journalists’ rights—an approach echoed by previous administrations.

PFUJ leaders condemned the amended PECA legislation, arguing that it enables detention and penalties without fair trial procedures. They announced the launch of a “Press Freedom Movement,” vowing that their opposition would extend beyond protests into a sustained campaign.

Butt stated that the movement had already begun, with plans to stage a sit-in outside Parliament House until the amendments are repealed. Additionally, the PFUJ is exploring legal avenues to challenge the law, with legal professionals currently analyzing its provisions.

While acknowledging that immediate enforcement remains unlikely due to pending procedural formalities, Butt expressed concerns that the government’s swift approval of the law could indicate plans for expedited enforcement.

He stated that the coming days would clarify the implementation timeline and reaffirmed PFUJ’s commitment to supporting journalists affected by the law—both legally and humanitarianly.