At a workshop in Peshawar on the effective use of the Right to Information mechanism and media safety, Syed Saadat Jehan, Deputy Director Communication at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Commission, highlighted how RTI strengthens journalistic work and protects reporters from defamation claims by providing a legal route to obtain verified data.
The event, organised by Press Freedom of Pakistan at a local hotel, brought together journalists, media professionals, legal experts and advocacy groups to discuss the practical use of the Right to Information in uncovering facts, exposing corruption and holding public authorities accountable. Participants examined how access to official records under the RTI framework improves credibility and reduces legal risk for reporters pursuing sensitive stories.
Responding to questions from attendees, Mr. Jehan said the commission is actively using multiple platforms to raise awareness of the KP RTI Act and to facilitate public access. He pointed out that KPIC offers an online complaint facility where journalists and citizens can lodge complaints when public bodies fail to comply with RTI requests, making enforcement more accessible across the province.
Speakers noted that effective use of Right to Information laws must be paired with legal knowledge and safety strategies for reporters, and that the workshop forms part of Pakistan Press Foundation’s ongoing efforts to equip journalists with the skills and tools needed to file RTI requests and follow up on responses. The exchange underscored the role of RTI in deepening transparency and protecting media practitioners in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
