Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Friday underscored the government’s dedication to the fundamental, democratic, and constitutional right of freedom of expression, describing a dynamic and independent media as essential for strengthening democracy.

The minister’s remarks came in a message extending his felicitations to the newly elected officials of the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA). He conveyed his best wishes to MB Soomro on his election as President, Usman Khan Kakar as Vice President, and Naveed Akbar as Secretary.

Further congratulations were offered to Aurangzeb Kakar for being chosen as Joint Secretary, Javed Hussain as Information Secretary, and Shakir Abbasi as Finance Secretary. The minister also lauded the newly appointed members of the PRA Governing Body.

Mr. Tarar stated that a free, active, and vibrant media was indispensable for promoting democratic values within the nation. He remarked that the success of the new office bearers was a clear reflection of the confidence placed in them by the journalistic community.

Commending the PRA for its significant role in communicating parliamentary proceedings to the public, the minister expressed his hope that the association would continue to maintain the highest professional standards of journalism. He added his expectation that the new leadership would actively champion the rights and welfare of journalists.