Islamabad: A report from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has highlighted significant issues with the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) (Amendment) Act 2025 and urged for its complete repeal. The report criticizes the law for its potential to misuse power, citing its vague definitions of ‘fake and false information’ and the severe penalties involved.

The findings, presented by digital rights activist Farieha Aziz, were discussed at an advocacy meeting funded by the European Union. HRCP Director Farah Zia expressed concern over recent laws that threaten civic spaces and stifle freedom of expression.

Farieha Aziz detailed the law’s creation of a regulatory authority and tribunal with excessive executive control, and the conversion of certain offences to non-bailable, increasing the risk of coercion. Additionally, she noted that the new National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency lacks proper safeguards.

Journalist Adnan Rehmat called for the decriminalization of free speech and encouraged dialogue with political parties. Journalist Saleem Shahid criticized the act for infringing on constitutional rights, urging a united stance from journalists and civil society.

HRCP Co-chair Munizae Jahangir emphasized connectivity issues and pressures faced by journalists in regions like Balochistan. Journalist Asad Ali Toor shared his experience of financial account freezes, labeled by Jahangir as ‘economic terrorism.’

Digital rights activists Usama Khilji and Aftab Alam proposed forming a national coalition to engage politically on freedom of expression issues. HRCP Council member Farhatullah Babar supported this, stressing the importance of combating disinformation while protecting free speech.

HRCP Islamabad Vice-chair Nasreen Azhar suggested that the coalition should also identify laws conflicting with constitutional freedoms.