Federation of Nepali Journalists Announces Nationwide Protest Against Government Ad Policy

Kathmandu. The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has announced a nationwide protest against the government's decision to restrict all levels of government advertisements exclusively to state-owned media. The FNJ has determined that the decision and circular issued by the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers violate press freedom, the spirit of the Constitution, and open market economic policies, prompting the launch of a pressure campaign.

Following the government's lack of response to a memorandum submitted to the Minister of Communication and Information Technology on Chaitra 23, the FNJ has unveiled a phased protest schedule. According to a statement issued by General Secretary Ram Prasad Dahal, provincial committees are scheduled to meet with Chief Ministers on Baishakh 9 to secure commitments against the government's decision.

Furthermore, the FNJ stated that on Baishakh 10, district branches will submit memorandums to Chief District Officers at 10:00 AM, followed by a press conference at the central office at 1:00 PM to publicize their stance. On Baishakh 11, all media outlets are called upon to express opposition through editorial solidarity, accompanied by a widespread social media protest at 8:00 AM.

The protest schedule includes discussions with national and international communities on Baishakh 14, and on Baishakh 15, the FNJ plans to submit memorandums through the Municipal and Rural Municipality Federation, calling on all local levels to defy the federal government's decision. The FNJ has warned that if these demands remain unaddressed, it will initiate further stringent protest programs.