MQM founder leader Altaf Hussain calls on PEMRA to take immediate action over broadcast of abusive language
LONDON. [UK]. December 30: The founding leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Altaf Hussain, has demanded that the Chairman of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and other relevant authorities take immediate notice of what he described as the broadcast of abusive and obscene language on television.
Speaking during a public address on TikTok from London, Hussain stated that if restrictions have been imposed on him under a court order, then the MQM Coordination Committee and the Central Executive Committee (CEC) should be allowed to present the party’s official position in the media.
He said that every institution, including parliament, the judiciary, and industry, operates under defined rules and regulations, and journalism is no exception.
He emphasized that impartiality is the most fundamental principle of free journalism. He questioned whether the media could be considered unbiased if it supports powerful groups, favors one political party over another, promotes what he termed false propaganda, and repeatedly levels allegations against a leader or party without providing them an opportunity to respond.
Referring to a press conference held on December 28, 2025, Altaf Hussain alleged that a so-called federal minister formed under Form 47, along with an individual associated with MQM Pakistan, leveled what he described as false, fabricated, and baseless allegations against him and MQM concerning the murder of Shaheed-e Inqilab Dr Imran Farooq.
He further criticized the language used during the press conference, calling it highly vulgar and unacceptable in any civilized society, regardless of ethnic or regional background.
Addressing journalists, media professionals, political analysts, and the public, Hussain questioned whether it was ethically or professionally acceptable to broadcast abuse, obscene language, or unverified allegations on television or publish them in print media.
He asked whether it was not the responsibility of media institutions to also provide the accused party with an opportunity to present its stance.
He recalled that in September 2015, the Lahore High Court imposed a ban on his speech and writing for six months, but claimed that despite the lapse of ten years, the restriction continues without any legal extension.
He alleged that the media is enforcing an undeclared ban on him while not presenting his viewpoint.
Drawing a comparison, he noted that despite restrictions on former Prime Minister Imran Khan, leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e Insaf continue to appear in print and electronic media.
He reiterated that MQM’s Coordination Committee, CEC, and party colleagues in Pakistan should therefore be invited to television talk shows to present the party’s position.
Questioning media conduct during the live press conference, he asked why news channels did not stop broadcasting abusive language in real time and why PEMRA failed to take immediate action.
He said that presenting a one-sided narrative was against journalistic principles and amounted to bias.
Commenting on allegations related to the murder of Dr Imran Farooq, He cited a past statement by Dr Imran Farooq’s father, the late Farooq Ahmed who, according to him, told senior journalist Wajahat Saeed that the identities of the killers were known and that they were associated with those making the allegations.
Hussain claimed that this statement is on record and said he would reveal further details when the time comes.
Concluding his address, he urged his supporters to remain calm and dignified in response to allegations and abuse.
He also expressed gratitude to journalists, analysts, political figures, workers, and members of the public from all communities who, he said, responded to the allegations against him with civility, restraint, and reasoned arguments.