- Government should foster independent, sustainable media through financial stability, clear regulation, and press freedom
Interview with Mr. Shahzad Khan, a seasoned media professional
The Fourth Estate at a Crossroads: A Veteran Anchor’s Diagnosis of Pakistani Media
From the newsroom to the university classroom, Shahzad Khan has spent nearly two decades at the heart of Pakistani electronic media. In this frank conversation, he dissects its power, its pitfalls, and its path forward.
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Shahzad Khan: My journey in media is one that spans both the microphone and the classroom. With a Master’s in International Relations, I entered this field drawn to the nexus of information and public discourse. My career began not in front of the camera, but behind the microphone at Radio Pakistan, which instilled in me the foundational disciplines of pacing, clarity, and storytelling. For over 18 years, I have had the privilege of serving as a News Anchor and Senior Anchor on the front lines of Pakistani journalism with institutions like Samaa TV, CNBC Pakistan, JAAG TV, ARY News, and now Abb Takk News. This has given me a ringside view of our nation’s most pivotal moments — from anchoring special transmissions, when the nation was fighting terrorism, transmissions during historic long marches and elections to covering natural disasters and breaking news.
As a student of Pakistan media, I’ve seen history made, from the lowest depths, to the better, higher points now in our life which we never thought were possible. Beyond the news desk, my roles as visiting faculty at institutions like Iqra University and the Institute of Journalism have been equally fulfilling, allowing me to help shape the next generation of journalists. This blend of practical, on-air experience and academic engagement has provided me with a unique, 360-degree perspective on the industry’s evolution and its challenges.
PAGE: How would you describe the role of media in Pakistan?
Shahzad Khan: The role of the media in Pakistan is a paradox of immense power and profound challenge. It is, without a doubt, one of the most influential institutions in the country. On one hand, it acts as a vital Fourth Estate. It has the power to set the national agenda, hold the powerful accountable — on rare but significant occasions — and provide a platform for public discourse. The live coverage of major events, from political rallies to natural disasters to man-made disasters, has created a more informed and connected citizenry. The explosion of satellite channels in the 2000s truly democratized information, breaking state monopolies and giving voice to diverse perspectives.
On the other hand, this role is often compromised. The media operates in a tight space, navigating a tripartite squeeze from the establishment, political parties, and corporate owners. This often leads to self-censorship, polarized narratives, and a “line of the day” that multiple channels toe. Furthermore, the intense competition for ratings has, at times, prioritized sensationalism over substance, entertainment over education. So, while its potential role is that of a democratic watchdog, its practiced role often oscillates between a platform for power struggles and a mirror to our societal conflicts.
PAGE: What is your take on interest in TV channels in terms of viewership?
Shahzad Khan: The viewership landscape is a tale of two worlds: the relentless energy of news and the enduring appeal of entertainment. Having anchored prime-time news and special transmissions for years, I see that news channel viewership is intensely event-driven. During a political crisis, a decisive court ruling, or a major press conference, the nation tunes in simultaneously. However, this has fostered a “talk-show culture” where high-decibel, often theatrical, debates dominate. While the audience is deeply engaged, this model often rewards rhetoric over reasoned analysis, leading to a certain fatigue among discerning viewers. In contrast, Pakistani dramas remain the bedrock of viewership. Their power to captivate audiences domestically and across borders is unparalleled. However, the most significant shift I observe — and one I discuss with my university students — is the generational migration to digital platforms. The younger demographic increasingly consumes content on-demand through YouTube and streaming services. Traditional TV remains massive, but it is no longer the undisputed king of the household for the next generation.
PAGE: What must the incumbent government do to rejuvenate electronic media?
Shahzad Khan: “Rejuvenate” is the key word here. The goal should not be to control, but to foster a healthy, independent, and sustainable media ecosystem. The government’s approach should be that of a facilitator, not a micromanager. First and foremost, it must ensure the financial viability of the industry. The massive, lingering issue of outstanding advertising dues from the government’s own departments needs to be cleared. This financial strangulation is a primary cause of instability and vulnerability within media houses. A transparent and swift payment mechanism is non-negotiable. Second, there is a critical need for clear, consistent, and fair regulation.
The current environment is often seen as arbitrary and punitive. The government should work with all stakeholders — media owners, journalists, and civil society — to draft a broadcast policy that is rooted in law and protects both national interests and press freedom. The rules of the game should be clear, predictable, and applied equally to all. Finally, the government should incentivize quality and diversity. This could mean tax breaks for channels that invest in educational programming, investigative journalism, or regional language content. Instead of seeing the media as an adversary, it should view a robust media sector as a partner in national development and social cohesion.
PAGE: How do you see electronic media faring in the not-too-distant future?
Shahzad Khan: The future is one of adaptation and convergence. I see three distinct paths forward.
1- The Digital Hybrid Model: The most successful TV channels will no longer be just “TV channels.” They will be multi-platform content hubs. Their news bulletins will live on YouTube, their drama clips will go viral on TikTok, and their experts will host podcasts. The linear broadcast will become just one of many distribution channels.
2- Niche is the New Mainstream: The era of trying to be everything to everyone is ending. We will see the rise of niche channels and digital-first brands focused on specific areas—a dedicated channel for business and economy, for in-depth documentary journalism, or for science and technology. This will allow for deeper, more specialized content.
3- The Battle for Credibility and the Fight Against Fake News: In an age of misinformation, the ultimate currency will be trust. Compounding this challenge is the epidemic of fake news and disinformation. Social media platforms have become a fertile ground for the rapid dissemination of falsehoods, but electronic media is not immune. Often, unverified videos or sensational claims originating online find their way into mainstream news cycles. The agenda behind this is often multifaceted—to sow social discord, influence political narratives, or simply generate clicks through outrage. So, how do we fight this? The solution requires a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, media houses must invest heavily in robust fact-checking departments and make verification a non-negotiable part of their editorial process. They must be transparent about their sources and have the courage to issue swift and prominent corrections when they get it wrong. Secondly, there is a pressing need for continuous professional development for journalists, training them to identify deepfakes, manipulated media, and sophisticated propaganda techniques. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, media literacy programs are essential. As someone who teaches this, I believe channels have a responsibility to dedicate airtime to educating their viewers on how to critically assess information. In the war against disinformation, an empowered and discerning audience is the ultimate defense. Channels that champion this ethos will be the ones to earn long-term credibility.
In conclusion, the not-too-distant future is challenging but promising. The traditional model is under threat, but this crisis is also an opportunity. It will force innovation, reward quality, and ultimately could lead to a more mature and responsible electronic media landscape in Pakistan. The ones who embrace change will not just survive; they will thrive.