Journalists are banned from bringing their phones to any press conference at the President’s Office after today.

At a press conference at the President's Office today, Chief Spokesperson Heena Waleed said journalists were banned from entering the President's Office for security reasons. Other than ministers and employees of the President's Office, phones will be prohibited for others.

Heena noted that even though phones were allowed in at today's press conference since no prior notice was given, it will not be allowed in hereafter.

While phones have been banned from press conferences in the President’s Office, many believe they are essential tools for press conferences. Journalists believe it is important to take notes and do things immediately.

Heena said she would try to hold regular press conferences and it was not the government's policy to hide things from journalists.