KATHMANDU, April 7: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has issued an ultimatum to the government to withdraw its decision to stop placing advertisements in private media outlets, warning of stronger protests if the demand is not addressed by Sunday.
The FNJ expressed dissatisfaction with a directive issued by the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers instructing that government notices and advertisements be published and broadcast only through state-run media. The federation said the decision undermines private media and independent journalism and has called for the circular to be immediately revoked.
FNJ General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal said the federation had already met Minister for Communication and Information Technology Bikram Timilsina and urged the government to cancel the decision, but their concerns had not been addressed.
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The umbrella organization of journalists across the country has announced a series of pressure programs starting April 8. As part of the first phase, discussions will be held with former FNJ presidents on April 8, followed by interactions with editors of various media outlets on April 9. Meetings with leaders of parliamentary parties are scheduled for April 10, while central committee meetings will take place on April 11 and 12.
The FNJ warned that stronger protest programs would be announced if the government fails to respond within the given deadline. It has also directed its provincial committees and branches to organize pressure campaigns in their respective regions.
In addition, the FNJ has urged media houses to ensure regular payment of salaries and necessary benefits to working journalists.
