MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Raja Faisal Mumtaz Rathore on Saturday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to media freedom, independent journalism, and the welfare of journalists, stating that constructive criticism was essential for good governance and sustainable development.

He was speaking during a visit to the Central Press Club Muzaffarabad to congratulate its newly elected office-bearers. The prime minister felicitated president Sohail Mughal, secretary general Shehzad Lolabi and other members of the executive body, expressing the hope they would utilize their fullest abilities to meet the expectations of their community and the general public.

“Pakistan People’s Party believes in media freedom, the promotion of independent journalism, and the welfare of the journalist community.We not only value constructive criticism but consider healthy criticism a cornerstone of good governance,” the prime minister said, assuring that positive criticism would always be welcomed.

He maintained that the importance of the media in the present era could not be denied and acknowledged the press club’s role in strengthening democracy and democratic institutions.

“The Central Press Club Muzaffarabad has always played a prominent role in reinforcing democracy, democratic institutions, and press freedom. It is an important journalistic institution of the state,” he said.

Stating that the media’s cooperation was indispensable for durable development and the establishment of a prosperous state, he assured that practical steps would be taken, in consultation with stakeholders, to resolve issues faced by journalists.

“Without the cooperation of the media, sustainable development and a strong, prosperous state are not possible. My presence here, despite many other pressing engagements, reflects the importance we attach to the media and the value my government places on its role,” he said.

Recalling his late father, former prime minister Raja Mumtaz Hussain Rathore, he said many senior journalists had worked closely with him and that he personally shared a longstanding bond with Muzaffarabad because of that association.

He pledged to continue contributing at every level for the development of the capital, following in his father’s footsteps.

Referring to the upcoming Overseas Kashmiris Investment Conference, the prime minister described it as a potential milestone in the region’s economic progress. He vowed that the government would extend all possible facilities to local and foreign investors to create investment opportunities in various sectors, help achieve genuine development targets, and reduce unemployment.

Mr Rathore reiterated that his government was taking serious measures to address public issues, ensure provision of basic necessities — including flour and electricity — and make arrangements for the forthcoming elections.

He claimed that within two months, the government had broken political stagnation and restored public confidence. In a short span, he added, seven cabinet meetings and three sessions of the Legislative Assembly had been held, while steps such as the establishment of education boards had also been undertaken.

“We have limited time and enormous challenges. However, we are moving forward with conviction and commitment, making the most of every available moment.”

Published in Dawn, February 15th, 2026