Barrister Saif blames PPP is Equal Responsible for PECA

In recent political discourse, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has come under fire for its role in the controversial amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). Barrister Dr. Muhammad Ali Saif, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Adviser on Information, has publicly stated that the PPP is equally responsible for the amendments, which have drawn significant criticism for their potential to curtail freedoms in the digital space.

The PECA law, originally passed in 2016, aimed to address cybercrimes but faced backlash for its sweeping provisions, which critics argue could be used to suppress free speech and target political dissent. Saif’s statement reignites the debate surrounding the law and the political parties involved in its creation and amendments.

Barrister Saif’s Allegations Against PPP

Barrister Saif's statement highlights the PPP's involvement in both the creation and support of the PECA amendments, making the party equally accountable for the law's controversial provisions. According to Saif, the PPP played a direct role in voting for the amendments when they were presented, despite later criticizing the law in the media.

"This is pure hypocrisy," Saif said, accusing the PPP of engaging in double standards by voting in favor of the law and then publicly opposing it. His remarks have sparked further debate among political analysts, with some questioning the integrity of political parties that support laws and then distance themselves from their implications.

PECA Law: A Shared Responsibility Between PPP and PML-N

Saif's comments extend beyond the PPP, with sharp criticism directed at the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) as well. The PTI leader emphasized that both the PPP and the PML-N are “two sides of the same coin” when it comes to the enforcement of what he deems as oppressive laws in Pakistan. According to Saif, these two major political parties have worked together to introduce and pass legislation that undermines the rights of citizens.

“The PML-N and PPP are equally accountable for pushing these draconian measures,” Saif added, referring to the amendments that he claims have stifled political freedoms and facilitated the targeting of opposition parties and media outlets.

Hypocrisy in the PPP's Stance on PECA

Saif’s criticism of the PPP’s stance on the PECA amendments focuses on what he perceives as hypocrisy. While the PPP voted in favor of the PECA amendments when the law was first introduced, it has since attempted to distance itself from its role in the law's creation. This shift in stance, according to Saif, reflects the party’s unwillingness to take responsibility for its actions in government.

The allegations of hypocrisy have resonated with many of Saif’s supporters, who argue that politicians should be held accountable for the decisions they make while in power, rather than attempting to revise history for political gain.

Political Accountability for Enforcing Oppressive Laws

At the heart of Saif’s remarks is the notion of political accountability. He insists that both the PPP and the PML-N must be held responsible for enforcing laws like PECA, which he claims have contributed to the erosion of freedoms in Pakistan. In Saif’s view, these parties have promoted lawlessness in the country, with the potential to undermine the rule of law by targeting opposition voices.

Saif’s comments are part of a larger conversation in Pakistan about the need for political leaders to be transparent and accountable for their actions, particularly when it comes to passing legislation that impacts citizens’ rights.

Conclusion: The Need for Transparency in Pakistan’s Legal Framework

The ongoing debate over the PECA amendments is a reflection of Pakistan’s broader struggle with political accountability and the transparency of its legal system. Barrister Saif’s accusations against the PPP and PML-N underscore the importance of holding political parties accountable for the laws they support and implement.

As the controversy surrounding the PECA amendments continues, many are calling for a more open and transparent approach to lawmaking in Pakistan. Ensuring that laws serve the public interest and protect individual freedoms should be a priority for all political leaders, regardless of party affiliation.

Source: Mashriq Vibe