ISLAMABAD: In the wake of journalist Taha Siddiqui’s attempted abduction, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) lawmaker Naveed Qamar took it to the parliament on Monday to condemn the blatant attack on freedom of expression.
Addressing to a parliamentary session, Qamar stated that the attack on the journalist sends a dangerous message to journalists across the country and that such acts are not just an attack on an individual but also on the democratic process.
“This signals that journalists have to hide the truth in all circumstances, and if such a notion is to exist, then the concept of democracy and freedom becomes meaningless,” Qamar said.
The MNA further stated that he was surprised at the lack of coverage regarding the incident and that he strongly condemns it, as well as all acts that suppress voices.
“I strongly condemn the attack on Taha Siddiqui, and also I am surprised that no one talked about the incident. Promotion of freedom of speech and expression should be ensured,” he added.
Earlier this month, Taha Siddiqui, an Islamabad-based journalist, narrowly escaped an attempt to kidnap him by unidentified armed men in the nation’s capital.
Snippet from PPP member Naveed Qamar's parliamentary speech condemning the attack on journalist Taha Siddiqui. pic.twitter.com/r8qw1anlhB
— Daily Times (@dailytimespak) January 15, 2018
