Matiullah Jan's arrest sparks outcry in Pakistan | DW News

Matiullah Jan, a Pakistani journalist, was arrested while reporting on protests following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The Pakistani government's response to the protests, including the use of force and restrictions on information, has raised concerns about press freedom and human rights violations, with Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan calling for dialogue and respect for the right to peaceful assembly.

Journalist's Arrest

• 00:00:00 Journalist Matiullah Jan was arrested while reporting on protests demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. His son described the arrest as a kidnapping, with unknown individuals picking him up in an unmarked car. Jan had been investigating deaths and injuries during a crackdown on the protests in Islamabad.

Government's Response

• 00:01:30 The Pakistani government's actions, including the use of force against protestors and the blocking of information, have raised concerns from human rights groups. There is controversy over whether live ammunition was used by security forces to disperse the protests, with conflicting reports on the number of casualties. The government has been accused of restricting press freedom and access to information.

Crackdown on Media

• 00:02:16 The Pakistani government's sensitivity to the protests and its crackdown on reporters covering them are seen as part of a pattern. The state is often accused of suppressing dissenting voices through tactics like detaining journalists for short periods and bringing trumped-up charges. This control over the media is prevalent and contributes to the government's narrative.

PTI's Role

• 00:10:20 The PTI party, led by Imran Khan, has been accused of provoking vulnerable people to participate in the protests. However, human rights groups assert that the government has a responsibility to uphold the right to peaceful assembly, regardless of the protesters' affiliations. The government's obligation is to de-escalate tensions and avoid using excessive force.

Repressive Tactics

• 00:09:01 The Pakistani government employs a range of tactics to suppress dissent, including enforced disappearances, unlawful use of force, and weaponizing laws to restrict freedom of expression and assembly. The UN Human Rights Committee has recommended Pakistan improve its human rights record, suggesting these practices are ongoing and problematic.