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The National Dialogue Committee (NDC) voiced serious worries on Saturday regarding the recent move by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), which issued a show-cause notice to national player Naseem Shah.

This announcement was made following a social media update where Shah expressed a negative viewpoint about Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

“Although we acknowledge the right of any organization to enforce its standards of behavior, we maintain that the PCB’s action in this particular case constitutes a troubling expansion of power that weakens a core element of democracy: the right to express critical views peacefully,” stated a declaration released by former PTI leaders heading the NDC.

In a democratic society, the ability to challenge, criticize, and ensure public officials are responsible is not an advantage but a sacred right, it stated.

“Challenging politicians, especially those holding public positions, is an essential way for people and civil society to promote openness and proper leadership. Punishing someone for using this right creates a dangerous example that hinders open discussion,” it stated.

The NDC emphasized that no person in a public position, regardless of their status, should be exempt from the obligation of being subject to public examination. ‘The idea of public service is founded on responsibility.’

To claim that a citizen, such as a public figure like Shah, is unable to express an opinion about a public official without suffering professional consequences contradicts the values of a republic, it added.

The discussion panel, headed by former information minister Fawad Chaudhry and other high-ranking politicians, stated that it is the responsibility of individuals in public positions to demonstrate strong respect for their critics.

Handling criticism through statesmanship, conversation, or merely recognizing the right to disagree is characteristic of a developed democracy.

Leveraging institutional authority—whether from the state or a semi-state entity—to protect oneself from public scrutiny constitutes a misuse of that power, it stated.

The NDC stated, ‘We urge all individuals in public office to uphold the dignity of their fellow citizens, particularly when they are the focus of criticism.’

The panel added that the PCB is a national organization symbolizing the hopes of countless Pakistanis.

It should stay an impartial organization, focused on advancing sports, and not be seen as a tool for silencing opposition or safeguarding political leaders.

Its rules and enforcement should only apply to issues closely related to the fairness of the game, not to penalize the political views of its athletes.

The National Dialogue Committee called on the PCB to quickly withdraw the show-cause notice directed at Shah.

It urged all public organizations to declare their dedication to the Constitution of Pakistan, which ensures the right to free speech.

“We remind all citizens and organizations that a democracy is reinforced, not undermined, when its population has the freedom to voice honest opinions to those in authority, and when those in power show the wisdom to listen,” concluded the statement.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).