Army entry into media office concerning: Editors’ Council

The Editors’ Council has expressed concern over recent incidents of intimidation and harassment of journalists and media institutions, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to press freedom and the democratic process ahead of the upcoming national elections.

Referring to the army entering the office of a registered digital media outlet on February 7, the council termed it as a "concerning example".

It added that if any irregularity in disseminating news had occurred within that institution, appropriate legal procedures should have followed rather than arbitrary actions.

"The government, army chief, and chiefs of public organisations had been vocal for the past 18 months about their attempts to restore the tarnished reputation of law enforcement agencies. However, such incidents send a negative message to both voters and media professionals ahead of the election," said the statement.

The Editors’ Council also cautioned that irresponsible reporting and the spread of misinformation could undermine the integrity of election coverage.

Calling for accountability, the council urged the government, security agencies, and all stakeholders to ensure the safety of journalists and uphold their responsibility in safeguarding democracy.