Sindh Minister Champions Press Freedom, Highlights Government Initiatives at Karachi Press Club Visit
KARACHI – Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon underscored the vital role of a robust and responsible media in today’s information age during a visit to the Karachi Press Club. Addressing the newly elected body, Memon stressed the need for collaboration between media institutions and other sectors to foster societal progress. He reaffirmed the Sindh government’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, highlighting its importance in combating the proliferation of misinformation. The minister’s visit included a luncheon hosted by the Press Club, providing a platform for open dialogue about the challenges faced by journalists. Memon assured the press club of the government’s support in addressing these concerns and reiterated the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) dedication to protecting journalists’ rights and welfare.
Memon, who also holds the Information and Transport portfolio, outlined a series of key government initiatives during his interaction with the media. He highlighted the Sindh government’s focus on development, particularly in the healthcare and housing sectors. He stated that Sindh boasts the best healthcare facilities in Pakistan and emphasized the government’s commitment to providing affordable housing, with two million houses currently under construction for flood victims. The minister also provided updates on the ongoing Red Line and Yellow Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) projects, the introduction of eco-friendly electric buses, and plans for launching electric vehicle (EV) taxi services, including a dedicated "Pink Taxi" service for women. Further empowering women, the government is also formulating a policy for the "Pink Scooty" initiative, aiming to enhance their mobility and independence.
Infrastructure development also formed a significant part of Memon’s address. He discussed the rapid progress on the Shahrah-e-Bhutto Expressway, a 39-kilometer project slated for completion by December. He also mentioned ongoing work on a link road in Karachi and the Thar Coal Energy project, a venture initiated by the late Benazir Bhutto, which now generates affordable electricity from local coal resources. Memon highlighted the significant progress made on this project, emphasizing its unprecedented nature in Pakistan’s history. He attributed the project’s current success to the efforts of the PPP government, after it was stalled during previous administrations.
Addressing questions on various issues, Memon reiterated the Sindh government’s clear stance on canal management and expressed the PPP’s strong support for freedom of expression. However, he also raised concerns about the spread of misinformation and the need for mechanisms to curb the dissemination of false narratives, particularly given the PPP’s experience with what he described as extensive media trials. Regarding the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), the Minister acknowledged the need to balance freedom of expression with responsible reporting and prevention of the spread of false information. He called for a thoughtful discussion on how to address the harmful impacts of misinformation while upholding fundamental rights.
The minister also commented on the recent political unrest following the arrest of the PTI chairman. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and accountability while condemning the violence and attacks on public institutions that followed the arrest. He criticized the PTI’s actions and questioned their subsequent appeals for leniency, highlighting what he perceived as hypocrisy in their criticism of the judiciary. He emphasized the Sindh government’s commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes while upholding the rule of law.
Memon provided details on the People’s Bus service, which serves one hundred thousand passengers daily and receives a substantial government subsidy. He acknowledged existing challenges with the Red Line BRT project and emphasized the need for inter-agency coordination to address utility-related issues and minimize disruptions caused by road construction. The Minister also defended Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah against media speculation regarding his position, praising his performance and dedication. He questioned the rationale for changing leadership when the current Chief Minister is demonstrably effective and committed to his duties.
Finally, Memon addressed the issue of rising transportation costs and government subsidies. He noted the Sindh cabinet’s ongoing discussions regarding the subsidy for People’s Buses, weighing options for reduction or elimination to free up funds for the purchase of additional electric vehicles. This strategy, he explained, aims to expand the public transport fleet while ensuring its long-term financial sustainability. He also expressed concern over rising traffic accidents and emphasized the shared responsibility of the government and citizens in promoting road safety and adherence to traffic regulations. This, he stated, requires a collective effort to improve road safety and reduce fatalities.
Memon’s visit to the Karachi Press Club provided a comprehensive overview of the Sindh government’s ongoing initiatives across various sectors, highlighting its commitment to development, press freedom, and public welfare. His address also touched upon sensitive political issues and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to dialogue and the rule of law. The Minister’s engagement with the media served as a platform for transparent communication and demonstrated the government’s commitment to addressing public concerns and fostering a strong and responsible media landscape. He underscored the importance of collaboration between government, media, and citizens to achieve progress and tackle shared challenges.