Anwar Zada Gulyar
PESHAWAR: The Tribal Union of Journalists (TUJ) has strongly condemned the alleged attack and vandalism at the Miranshah Press Club and expressed solidarity with journalists, calling for an immediate and transparent investigation.
In a joint statement, TUJ President Hasbanullah, General Secretary Muhammad Jameel, Senior Vice President Abuzar Afridi, Vice President Shakir Mohmand, Press Secretary Anwarzada Gulyar, Senior Member Qazi Fazlullah and Finance Secretary Dildar Hussain said press clubs were important centres of journalistic activity and symbols of freedom of expression.
The TUJ said, according to the press club management, the brother of a ruling-party MPA allegedly entered the premises with party workers, damaged property and used abusive language against journalists. The union stressed that all allegations should be investigated impartially and those responsible should be held accountable according to law.
The union leaders said journalists had a constitutional and legal right to perform their duties without political pressure, threats or intimidation. They warned that such incidents could undermine independent journalism and freedom of expression.
The TUJ urged KP Chief Minister Suhail Afridi and Information Minister Shafi Jan Khan to take immediate notice, order a transparent probe, initiate legal action against those found responsible and ensure security for the Miranshah Press Club and its journalists.
The union also urged PTI leadership to take disciplinary action against any party workers found involved in the incident, stressing that no political affiliation should place anyone above the law.
The TUJ reaffirmed its complete solidarity with Miranshah journalists and said there would be no compromise on press freedom, journalists’ dignity or professional independence.
