President Zardari affirms newspapers key to democracy | The Express Tribune

President Asif Ali Zardari underscored the role of newspapers in strengthening democracy and fostering an informed society on Thursday, urging the youth to develop the habit of reading newspapers and calling on educational institutions to actively promote it.

In his message on National Newspaper Readership Day, the president extended greetings to readers, journalists, editors, publishers, and others associated with the profession of journalism. He also commended the All-Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) for annually marking the day to encourage the culture of newspaper reading in the country.

President Zardari stressed that an informed citizenry forms the foundation of a vibrant democracy, enabling people to make better choices not only during elections but in all aspects of life. He noted that newspapers have historically been central to Pakistan’s national discourse, informing citizens, exposing injustices, providing debate platforms, and safeguarding the public’s right to know. For this invaluable service, he said, generations of journalists deserve the nation’s respect.

Reflecting on his personal experience, the president said he learned early on that newspapers guarantee a responsible flow of information, with editors playing a key role in deciding what is highlighted and what is set aside. However, he regretted that the rise of social media has eroded this editorial function, fueling disinformation and propaganda. This, he remarked, makes the values of responsible journalism carried by newspapers all the more critical today.

“In today’s digital era, where news often spreads before it is verified, newspapers remain symbols of trust,” he said, adding that they provide depth, context, and thoughtful analysis, helping readers understand not only what has happened but also why it matters.

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President Zardari, while acknowledging the serious challenges confronting the print media industry, voiced optimism that Pakistani newspapers, like many leading publications worldwide, have the potential to thrive. He stressed that their survival should not hinge on government support or business patronage but on the trust and loyalty of readers whose right to know they have championed for decades.

The president called on the youth to cultivate reading habits, urged educational institutions to promote newspaper reading among students, and asked the print media to uphold high standards of ethics, impartiality, and responsibility.

He emphasized that while press freedom is essential for democracy, it must always be exercised with truth, balance, and fairness.

“I hope that newspaper readership in our country will continue to grow and help us build a more informed, thoughtful, and democratic Pakistan,” the president concluded.