The General Body of the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA) of Pakistan held a successful meeting in Islamabad, resulting in significant decisions aimed at strengthening the organization and supporting journalistic freedom. Key points discussed included organizational reforms, the removal of restrictions on fundraising, preparations for upcoming elections, and resolutions addressing the challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan and internationally.
Chaired by PRA President Usman Khan at the Parliament House Press Lounge, the meeting opened with Secretary Naveed Akbar Chaudhary presenting the agenda and briefing members on the association’s performance over the past two years. President Usman Khan highlighted major achievements, effective protest strategies, and PRA’s commitment to defending press freedom. His remarks were met with strong support from members, who praised both the organizational report and recent training activities.
The PRA leadership addressed members’ questions candidly, emphasizing a renewed commitment to unity and ongoing support for journalist rights. Usman Khan reaffirmed the association’s pledge to continue its efforts with greater efficiency and solidarity, expressing hope that future leaders would uphold traditions of mutual respect and cooperation.
With the participation of approximately 106 members—an indication of robust commitment and trust—the meeting saw unanimous approval of several critical resolutions. These included expressing solidarity with journalists in Gaza, voicing concerns over the PECA Amendment Act, condemning non-payment of salaries and dismissals affecting media workers, and calling for the implementation of constitutional protections and parliamentary supremacy. Incidents involving police misconduct against PRA members and threats against journalists were strongly condemned, and demands were made for the immediate withdrawal of illegitimate legal cases and action against responsible officials.
A key decision was the lifting of the ban on fundraising for the welfare of PRA members, approved by a large majority following extensive discussion. The meeting also passed amendments to the PRA constitution, such as ensuring the timely formation of committees within a month of the new body’s election, providing quarterly performance reports, and commencing the drafting of detailed association rules.
Members raised concerns about voter list scrutiny. The leadership assured them that every new body would complete both scrutiny and member registration within six months, with the formation of a dedicated committee to oversee the process.
Treasurer Asghar Chaudhary presented the finance report, which was approved by the members who also praised the association’s performance and advocacy for journalistic freedom and legislative progress. Highlights included discussion of new organizational structures, the establishment of several committees—such as a Digitalization Committee, Women’s Committee, Administrative Committee, and Discipline Committee—and PRA’s national expansion efforts.
The authority to form a five-member election committee for the upcoming elections was granted to the PRA body, with the stipulation that the committee cannot review or alter previous decisions. Members were also reminded that they must pay their dues by August 29 to retain voting rights.
The PRA extended thanks to National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, and both parliamentary media directors for their ongoing cooperation. The participation of senior members and former office bearers, who provided valuable input and feedback, underscored the collective approach guiding PRA’s future direction.
The PRA expressed gratitude to all members for their active participation and reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding the rights and interests of parliamentary reporters in Pakistan.
