ISLAMABAD, Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq administered the oath to the newly elected office-bearers of the Parliamentary Reporters Association Pakistan (PRAP) at a ceremony held in Parliament House. Addressing the gathering as chief guest, he congratulated the officials and wished them success in their responsibilities.
The ceremony was attended by Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, Deputy Chairman Senate Syed Al Khan Nasir, MNAs Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidri and Dr. Sharmeela Farooqi Hisham, among others. Speaker Sadiq praised parliamentary reporters for their dedication, noting that they spend more time in Parliament than many lawmakers and play a crucial role in conveying legislative proceedings accurately to the public.
He emphasized that responsible reporting strengthens democracy, enhances public trust, and serves as the “eyes of democracy,” highlighting the importance of truth, integrity, and professional ethics. He also cautioned about challenges posed by the growing use of artificial intelligence in journalism, urging careful attention to its impact on the profession.
The Speaker commended Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar for his effective performance and suggested that PRAP members be provided facilities similar to those enjoyed by National Assembly staff, including allied bank loan benefits. He assured full support from the National Assembly Secretariat for reporters in performing their professional duties.
PRAP President M.B. Somro and Secretary Naveed Akbar thanked Speaker Sadiq for his guidance and continuous support, acknowledging the Secretariat’s cooperation in strengthening the association’s activities.