The July Revolutionary Journalist Alliance (JRJA) has announced plans to besiege the Election Commission (EC) if a recent directive banning journalists from using mobile phones within 400 meters of polling centers during the 13th National Parliament election and referendum is not withdrawn by 5 p.m. today. JRJA General Secretary Israfil Farzi declared that the EC’s order constitutes a direct interference with citizens’ rights and an attack on press freedom.

In a statement, Farzi described the restriction as unjustified, discriminatory, and contrary to the principles of free media. He argued that mobile phones are essential tools for journalists in the digital era, enabling real-time reporting and public access to information. Preventing their use, he said, amounts to deliberate control of news flow and undermines transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

The JRJA warned that if the EC fails to revoke the ban within the deadline, journalists will proceed with the planned siege, holding the commission fully responsible for any resulting situation.