Country Under Open Martial Law, Media Leadership Chasing Funds and Plots Instead of Resistance: Matiullah Jan

Islamabad: Senior journalist Matiullah Jan has described the current situation in the country as an “openly imposed martial law,” drawing parallels with the era of former military ruler General Zia-ul-Haq. He strongly criticized the leadership of journalistic organizations and press clubs for failing to resist authoritarian practices.

Addressing a gathering in Islamabad, Matiullah Jan said that a segment of the media is once again being targeted and labeled as traitors and agents, similar to tactics used in the past. He added that instead of standing up against such repression, another segment of the media and journalistic bodies is busy pursuing government funds, development schemes, and plots.

Rejecting the narrative that the crisis is merely a power struggle between political parties, Matiullah Jan said that media leadership remains trapped in outdated political thinking. He emphasized that in the age of social media, every citizen has effectively become a journalist, making traditional gatekeeping irrelevant.

During his speech, despite interruptions and attempts to create disruption by a leader of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Matiullah Jan stood firm on his stance. He said that unless journalists engage in self-accountability and abandon politics driven by personal interests, they will never be able to confront those in power with courage and integrity.

He concluded by stressing that true resistance requires unity, honesty, and the willingness to challenge authority without fear or favor.