ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued a set of rules for media coverage of the upcoming general elections in the country.
The guidelines, are applicable to all satellite TV channel licensees, including News and Current Affairs and Regional Languages Channels, during the campaign and polling for the general elections scheduled for February 8, 2024.
The notification of Pakistan’s media regulator authority has said that it is the national duty of all Pakistani citizens, institutions, organizations, and entities to provide their utmost support and assistance to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections, thereby strengthening democracy, democratic norms, and the electoral process.
Electronic media plays a pivotal role in educating the masses, shaping public opinion, and reinforcing the democratic process necessary for the establishment of a democratic government in the country.
Therefore, all licensees are urged to be mindful when broadcasting their content in the lead-up to the General Elections. They should avoid disseminating any content that might cast doubt on the conduct of the general elections in 2024 or undermine the electoral process through the dissemination of negative or false news, information, or reports. Violation of these principles would be considered a breach of PEMRA Laws, including the Code of Conduct 2015 and its provisions:
General Elections: Guidelines Violation Could Lead to PEMRA Sanctions
“Airing of any such news/content would be deemed in violation of PEMRA Laws, including the Code of Conduct 2015 in general, and specifically its provisions,” the notification warned.
The regulator also called upon media organizations to ensure that news, current affairs, or documentary programs present information in an “accurate and fair manner.”
It further stated that any political or analytical program, whether in the form of a talk show or otherwise, must be conducted objectively and ensure representation of all relevant parties.
In talk shows and similar programs, PEMRA emphasized that TV channels must ensure that the program is conducted in an objective and unbiased manner.
Additionally, no licensee is permitted to broadcast any live program unless an effective delay mechanism is in place to enable monitoring and editorial control in compliance with the Code.
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) officially announced the general elections on February 8, 2024, following the Supreme Court’s decision.
