Shadows and Echoes: Co-Dependence of Media and Government in the Struggle for Power

Abstract

Political bias in the media has become a persistent age-old phenomenon. The far-reaching effects of such bias are profound, influencing societal progress and governance. The absence of a truly non-partisan media allows individuals to amass disproportionate power, manipulating public opinion irrespective of ground realities. This lack of media impartiality fosters public mistrust, exacerbating political divisions based on affiliations. Social cohesion, vital for national progress, is hindered as civil discourse gives way to divisive rhetoric. This paper aims to critically analyse the role of media manipulation, state intervention in media control, and the objectives they pursue. Emphasis is placed on the micro-level manipulation of news stories and its impact on the broader sociopolitical landscape. The investigation is situated within the context of the political climate in Pakistan, examining the ongoing struggle for narrative control between the state and the media. The intertwined relationship between these entities is scrutinised, revealing how they leverage power for personal and political gains while shaping the collective understanding of crucial issues.