Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi said Press Freedom remains a cornerstone of democracy. According to the governor, freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and in the national interest. He made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) at the Governor House in Karachi.

Led by CPNE Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio, the delegation discussed journalism, media legislation and public governance. Governor Hashmi described local government institutions as the foundation of democracy and an effective system of public service. The governor also called his office a public trust and pledged to perform his duties with honesty, transparency and justice.

More than 100 words into the discussion, Press Freedom remained the key topic. Recalling the pledge he made after taking office, Governor Hashmi said he would remain free from prejudice, dishonesty, injustice and arrogance. Constructive suggestions from journalists, he added, always help improve governance and public service delivery. Accurate reporting and informed public debate strengthen democratic values and increase public awareness.

During the meeting, the CPNE delegation urged authorities to improve Sindh’s motorway network and review the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). Members of the delegation emphasized that lawmakers should consult journalists, editors and media organizations before introducing new media legislation. Practical measures are also needed to address the challenges facing Pakistan’s media industry, the participants said.

Governor Hashmi assured the delegation that the government would consider their recommendations. The meeting reflected the importance of continued dialogue between policymakers and the media community. Participants included Hassan Abbas, Muhammad Arif Baloch, Muneeza Seham, Qazi Asad Abid, Maqsood Yousuf, Muhammad Usman, Abdul Rehman Sami, Hassan Nisar, Mahmood Alam Khalid, Muhammad Kanwar, Mudassar Alam and Basheer Ahmed.