JOURNALISM is neither entertainment, nor commerce, nor a political instrument; it is a sacred and responsible profession.

It serves as the eyes and ears of both the state and society. A journalist observes with clarity, listens with care and conveys what is seen and heard to the public without fear, without greed and without prejudice. True journalism pairs information with reform, inquiry with responsibility and criticism with moral integrity. A professional journalist is neither a political party worker nor a spokesperson for any institution, nor an admirer of any leader. He is neither partisan nor adversarial; he stands only with the truth. Regrettably, journalism in Pakistan departed from this ideal long ago.

Today, journalism has receded while political brokerage has flourished. Alongside journalists, a growing number of television anchors, YouTubers and other media personalities have assumed partisan roles, aligning themselves with specific political interests. Their programmes no longer report news; they promote........

© Pakistan Observer