Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) mourns the loss of senior journalist Anila Shaheen. On February 26, Anila Shaheen, a senior journalist remembered for her dedication to journalism and advocacy for journalists’ rights, died in Peshawar after a brief illness. She was the first woman to serve as the general secretary of the Khyber Union of Journalists and the first vice president of the Peshawar Press Club.

Her husband, Irfanullah, reported that Shaheen suffered a brain hemorrhage during Sehri four days before her death. She underwent two surgeries but remained in a coma until her passing.

Colleagues and peers remembered Shaheen as a fearless and principled journalist. Throughout her career, she made significant contributions to the field and strongly advocated for press freedom and resolving issues facing working journalists. Shaheen’s work extended beyond the local sphere, influencing journalism across Pakistan, particularly in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region.

Her funeral was held in her ancestral village of Chamkani, Azizabad, where many mourners, including members of the media community, gathered to pay their respects.

Ziaul Haq, bureau chief of ARY News in Peshawar, highlighted Shaheen’s courage, particularly noting her coverage of the Swat military operation.

The Peshawar Press Club and the Khyber Union of Journalists expressed profound grief over Shaheen’s death. Both organizations acknowledged her dynamic presence and unwavering commitment to journalism.

Further tributes came from governmental figures, including the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, and the Minister for Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control, Syed Fakhar Jehan. Both expressed deep sorrow over her passing and commended her exceptional service to journalism in the region. Governor Kundi remarked on Shaheen’s role as an inspirational figure for young women in journalism.

On February 8, journalist Zain Malik tragically lost his life after falling from a building rooftop while taking part in kite-flying activities during the Basant festival in Lahore. The incident occurred in the Gulshan-e-Ravi area on the final day of the three-day celebration.

Malik, a sports reporter for GNN TV, sustained critical injuries in the fall and was declared dead at the government-run Mian Munshi District Headquarters Hospital.

Hospital officials listed cardiopulmonary arrest as the cause of death, with head injuries identified as a major contributing factor. Following completion of the required formalities, Malik’s body was handed over to his family. He had been married for three years and is being mourned by relatives, colleagues, and friends.

On December 23, prominent journalist, columnist, and analyst Salahuddin Ahmed passed away. His funeral prayers were offered the following day at the Cantonment Graveyard near Army Public School on Warsak Road in Peshawar.

Salahuddin Ahmed was a senior figure in Pakistani journalism. He served as the founder chairman of the Peshawar Press Club, founder president of the Khyber Union of Journalists, and former president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists. He also served as Resident Editor of Daily Mashriq.

He was the eldest son of the late Muhammad Ehsan Talib, who was a journalist, columnist, writer, and poet.

Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi expressed grief over the passing of Salahuddin Ahmed. In a message, the governor stated that the late journalist rendered long and distinguished services to the field of journalism and that his professional contributions would be remembered.

The governor described the death as a loss for the journalistic community and extended condolences to the bereaved family, particularly to his sons, Hussain Salahuddin (Advocate) and Mansoor Salahuddin. He also offered prayers for patience for the family and for the departed soul.

On December 16, veteran journalist Imran Ahmed Sheikh, news editor at The News and a former staffer of Dawn, passed away at the age of 56 due to health complications following several months of recovery from a Whipple procedure.

Sheikh began his journalistic career in the early 1990s with The Frontier Post as a sub-editor. He later joined Dawn, where he worked for a decade, and subsequently held a brief position at Express TV. In 2007, he joined The News as its news editor.

His funeral prayers were attended by a large number of colleagues, media professionals and individuals from various walks of life. He was laid to rest outside the shrine of Hazrat Tahir Bandagi (RA).

Sheikh, son of the late Nawazish Ali, a retired health department employee, is survived by his widow and three brothers: Irfan Ahmed, Adnan Ahmed and Rizwan Ahmed.

Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani, Chief Editor of the daily Al-Jamiat Sarhad, passed away in Peshawar on October 31 at the age of 61. The veteran journalist, former Senior Vice President of the Bank of Khyber, and human rights activist was laid to rest in Askari Phase 6, Peshawar, where people from all walks of life attended his funeral prayers. The Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences over his demise.

In a joint statement, CPNE President Kazim Khan, Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio, other office bearers, and all members conveyed their profound grief over the passing of the senior journalist. They prayed for the forgiveness of the departed soul, asking Almighty Allah to grant him a place in His eternal mercy and to bless the bereaved family with patience and strength to bear this irreparable loss.

Gilani also served as General-Secretary of the China-Pakistan Friendship Association, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and was recognized for his efforts in promoting friendly relations between Pakistan and China. He founded the China Radio Listeners Club Peshawar and regularly wrote articles in leading newspapers highlighting the significance of Sino-Pakistan friendship.

His late father, Syed Mohammad Hassan Gilani, was also a journalist and had worked for Daily Dawn and Nawa-i-Waqt in Peshawar.

On September 23, senior journalist Mazhar Iqbal passed away at the age of 56, succumbing to injuries sustained in a road accident a day earlier. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief from political leaders, colleagues, and the broader media community.

Iqbal was critically injured when his motorcycle skidded near T-Chowk, resulting in a severe head injury. He was first taken to Polyclinic Hospital and later transferred to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), where he remained in critical condition until his passing, confirmed by his son, Nouman Mazhar.

Funeral prayers were held at the Atomic Energy Employees Housing Society, followed by his burial at the Model Town Humak graveyard. The service was attended by numerous dignitaries, including former minister Fawad Chaudhry, Bilal Azhar Kiani, and a large number of fellow journalists, reflecting the respect he commanded within the media fraternity.

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar mourned the loss, praising Iqbal’s lifelong dedication to press freedom and democratic ideals.

National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also extended condolences to the family, commending Iqbal for upholding high journalistic standards throughout his career.

Federal Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Ambreen Jan, along with Principal Information Officer Mobashir Hassan, expressed deep sorrow over Iqbal’s death. Hassan described him as a “reliable reference in the field of journalism,” adding that the industry had lost one of its most experienced and principled voices.

Senior minister Maryam Aurangzeb recalled Iqbal’s fearless reporting and unwavering commitment to the rights of journalists and the public. She noted that the intensity with which he asked questions was his hallmark, driven always by sincerity and a strong sense of duty.

Mazhar Iqbal is survived by his wife and two sons.

Sufi’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from various figures and organizations. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed deep sorrow, with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi describing Sufi’s death as the end of a golden era in sports journalism. Naqvi praised Sufi’s significant contributions to the promotion of sports, especially cricket, and highlighted the enduring impact of his journalistic work.

Sufi’s career spanned over six decades, during which he worked with several media outlets, including Geo News and Daily Jang, with which he had a long-standing association of over 30 years. Known for his distinctive writing and high-profile interviews, Sufi was regarded as a mentor to many journalists and was one of the senior-most members of the Karachi Press Club.

Sufi was recognized for his interviews with prominent cricketers such as Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Ramiz Raja, Waqar Younis, Moin Khan, Rashid Latif, and Inzamam-ul-Haq. His legacy includes not only his journalistic achievements but also his role in mentoring and guiding future generations of reporters.

Sufi’s contributions extended beyond journalism; during General Zia-ul-Haq’s martial law in 1977, he was arrested for opposing the regime and spent several months in jail. His dedication to his profession and his principled stance during challenging times have been remembered and honored by his peers and admirers.

The Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, former cricketer Shahid Afridi, and sports journalist Faizan Lakhani were among those who expressed their condolences. Afridi remembered Sufi as a supportive and vocal advocate for the betterment of the game and players, while Lakhani referred to his passing as the “end of an era” in sports journalism.

On August 28, senior journalist and former Secretary General of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Amir Mehmood, was laid to rest in Karachi after funeral prayers.

Mehmood, son of Mahmood Riaz and nephew of the celebrated literary figure Ibn-e-Insha, was also the Chief Editor of the monthly Kiran, Khawateen, Shuaa, and Imran Digest Group.

The funeral was attended by Adviser to the Sindh Chief Minister Waqar Mehdi, All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) President Sarmad Ali, CPNE Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio, Finance Secretary Hamid Hussain Abidi, Vice President (Sindh) Qazi Asad Abid, former Secretary General Ejazul Haq, and a large number of colleagues and friends.

President Asif Ali Zardari, offering condolences on August 27, described Mehmood as a respected and distinguished name in journalism and publishing. He said Mehmood had rendered invaluable services in the fields of journalism and literature. The President prayed for his soul and for strength to be granted to his family.

Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, and Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab also paid tribute to the late journalist, acknowledging his dedication to media freedom and institutional welfare.

The CPNE, in a joint condolence statement issued by President Kazim Khan, Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio, office-bearers, and Standing Committee members, said that Amir Mehmood’s decades-long struggle for the constitutional and democratic right to freedom of expression set a shining example for future generations.

On July 9, Zubeida Mustafa, former assistant editor at Dawn and a journalist with a career spanning over five decades, passed away in Karachi. She was 84. Her family confirmed the news.

Born in India in 1941, Mustafa relocated to Pakistan during her early years. She pursued both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in international relations at the University of Karachi. Her professional career began at the Pakistan Institute of International Affairs in the 1960s, where she served as a research officer.

In 1975, Mustafa joined Dawn as an assistant editor. She held the position until her retirement in 2008. During her time at the newspaper, she contributed numerous editorials and columns, with a focus on subjects such as education, public health, and gender issues.

Mustafa received international recognition in 2012 when she became the first Pakistani woman journalist to be honoured with the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) Lifetime Achievement Award.

In a statement, the Karachi Press Club expressed sorrow over her passing, referring to her as a “true icon and veteran of Pakistani journalism.” The club noted that her contributions would continue to influence future journalists.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also released a message of condolence, acknowledging her role in highlighting social, cultural, and linguistic rights. The HRCP described her as someone who supported those facing disadvantage and marginalisation.

Mustafa is regarded for her role in shaping the field of journalism in Pakistan, especially during a time when few women held senior editorial positions.

Mazhar Sheikh had served in multiple media organisations over the course of his career. These included Pakistan Observer, Kainat, Asas, and Jahan Pakistan. He also worked with Khabrain and Channel 5 for approximately 16 years.

Zaman Mughal, a close friend and former colleague, said Sheikh was known for his in-depth reporting and held significant knowledge within his reporting beat. He added that Sheikh was elected president of the Islamabad Crime Reporters Association (ICRA) due to his seniority and reputation in the field.

His funeral prayer and burial were held at Eidgah graveyard in Rawalpindi. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Mazhar Sheikh. In a statement, the IGP said that Sheikh’s contributions to journalism will always be remembered with respect and admiration. He offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength and patience for them in this difficult time.

His funeral prayers were offered in Nowshera and attended by a large number of people, including Adviser to the Prime Minister Pervez Khattak, Minister Mian Khaliqur Rehman, Pir of Manki Sharif Pirzada Shamsul Amin, Awami National Party provincial president Mian Iftikhar Hussain, former information minister Barrister Mian Feroz Jamal Shah Kakakhel, journalists, religious scholars, political workers, social activists, and government officers.

Former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister and head of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarians (PTIP) Mahmood Khan, lawmakers Idrees Khattak and Shah Ahad, and Hospital Director of Qazi Hussain Ahmad Medical Complex Dr Kamran Hakim Khan also visited the family and expressed their sympathies.

Talking to reporters, Mahmood Khan said that journalists like Mushtaq Paracha are born once in centuries. His absence will always be felt. He added: “I had a brotherly relationship with him, and his sudden demise has left me deeply saddened. His contributions to journalism and to his community are unparalleled.”

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman conveyed his condolences to Engr Yousaf Ishaq Paracha via telephone. He recalled his bond of respect with the late journalist, noting that both had studied together at Darul Uloom Haqqania, Akora Khattak. He praised Paracha’s commitment to journalism.

The Nowshera Press Club held a condolence meeting where attendees paid rich tribute to Mushtaq Paracha.

Photo: Facebook

Shahid carried forward the journalistic heritage of his father, Mahar Ilahi Shamsi, who launched Daily Kaleem as a weekly in Sukkur in 1948. The publication transitioned to a daily format. He is survived by his widow, three sons, and two daughters.

Following the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from various quarters. Syed Shafqat Ali Shah, a prominent political leader, expressed profound sorrow and grief, offering his heartfelt condolences to Shahid’s family and praying for their fortitude during this challenging time.

Barrister Arslan Sheikh commented on Shahid’s unwavering principles and respect in the media industry: “He was a man of principles and was respected for his views. May his soul rest in eternal peace.” He added that Shahid’s contributions to journalism will always be remembered.

The members of the Sukkur Press Club also expressed their condolences, highlighting Shahid’s role as a significant figure in journalism.

Asar Chauhan embarked on his journalistic career in 1958 from Sargodha before making his mark in Lahore. His contributions to the media industry included the launch of the weekly magazine Panjab in 1971 and the daily Siyasat on July 11, 1973, with editions published from Lahore, Sargodha, and Multan. He also introduced the Punjabi magazine Chanan.

Throughout his career, he wrote columns for leading newspapers such as Daily Pakistan, Jang, and Nawa-i-Waqt, maintaining his association with Nawa-i-Waqt until his final breath. He had close ties with veteran journalist Majid Nizami who honored him with the title “Poet of Pakistan Ideology.”

At the time of his passing, Asar Chauhan was working on his autobiography, but he could not complete it.

Sarfraz, a seasoned journalist with over three decades of experience, held prominent roles in Pakistan’s media industry. He served as the Editor Coordination and Magazine Editor for The Nation and worked as a correspondent for Gulf News. He also founded the Academia Magazine, contributing significantly to education-focused journalism.

Sarfraz was a life member and governing body member of the Lahore Press Club. Among his accolades, he received the prestigious South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP).

The Lahore Press Club, in a statement, informed journalists about Sarfraz’s passing.

Journalists and colleagues from The Nation, Daily Times, Academia Magazine, and various media organizations extended their condolences to his family.

Photo: Emanuel Sarfraz’s profile 

Shahzad was a respected figure in the media industry, known for his dedication, professionalism, and integrity. His illustrious career spanned numerous impactful stories and reports.

His younger brother, Khurram Shahzad, a senior reporter at the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), expressed profound sorrow over the loss of his elder brother. The funeral prayer for the deceased journalist was scheduled for January 13 at 11:00 AM at the Big Graveyard (Chohar) near Chour Chowk, Rawalpindi.

Political leaders and public figures have also expressed their condolences. President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Federal Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, and Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram expressed their grief and paid tribute to his work in journalism.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a condolence message, expressed his grief with Shahzad’s family and said that the late journalist’s work in the field of journalism would forever.

In a condolence message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and extended his sympathies to the bereaved family. He acknowledged Zuberi’s significant contributions to journalism, emphasizing that his dedication to the profession will always be remembered.

Federal Minister Attaullah Tarar also shared his sorrow over Zuberi’s passing, describing it as a profound loss for his family and the journalistic community. In his condolence message, Tarar highlighted Zuberi’s dedication to economic journalism and his exceptional talent, which set a high standard in the newspaper industry.

“The void left by Zuberi’s passing is irreplaceable, and his remarkable achievements and contributions to the industry will always be remembered,” Tarar stated.

Arshad A. Zuberi, the Deputy Chief Executive of the Business Recorder Group, passed away on December 29 at the age of 72 following a prolonged illness. He leaves behind a wife and three children.

Zuberi earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the United States in 1973. He joined the Business Recorder Group’s Apex Printry as Technical Director in 1974, where his initial responsibilities included the security printing of bank documents. He later ascended to the roles of printer and publisher of Business Recorder in 1981 and was promoted to Deputy Chief Executive in 1985, overseeing administration, accounts, and advertising.

Throughout his career, Zuberi was actively involved in media associations, serving multiple times as the Secretary General of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) and as the founding member and first Secretary General of the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA). He was widely respected within the industry for his contributions, particularly in resolving issues faced by broadcasters.

Senior government officials, journalist bodies, and members of civil society have widely condoled his death.

“Arshad Zuberi was a highly respected member of the Board and during his various tenures in the executive committee of PBA he was instrumental in resolving many issues faced by the broadcasters,” the PBA said in a statement offering their condolences. 

The APNS offered condolences to his family, describing him as a “veteran publisher who served the newspaper industry with enthusiasm and great zeal.”

Funeral prayers were held on December 30 at the Noorul Islam mosque near Zamzama Park, DHA in Karachi.

Mohammad Arifullah Sarhadi, a veteran journalist and founder of the local newspaper Daily Islah, passed away on December 2 after a prolonged illness. He was 80 years old.

Arifullah’s funeral prayers were held on December 3 in Gul Dher, Tordher, and he was later laid to rest in his ancestral graveyard.

Speaking about his father, Gul Bacha, one of his sons, said that Arifullah had been bedridden for the past few months, with his condition deteriorating in the days leading up to his death. He breathed his last at home.

Born in 1944, Arifullah was amongst the founders of the labour union in Karachi. Arifullah is survived by his widow, five sons — Gul Bacha, Mehmood Jan, Faiq Khan, Qari Idrees, and Abid Khan — and four daughters.

In a condolence meeting, members of the Swabi Press Club paid tribute to the late journalist.

Abbasi began his career in journalism with Sindh TV News, where he worked as a correspondent for three years. He later joined the English-language newspaper Pakistan Today, serving for four years and building his reputation as a skilled reporter. In February 2016, Abbasi transitioned to Daily Ausaf in Karachi, where he served as a correspondent until May 2018.

In April 2018, he joined Dunya News Group as a member of the Daily Dunya Karachi team as a court reporter. However, in September 2023, Abbasi, along with many colleagues, was laid off as part of a sweeping organizational decision by the news outlet.

After losing his job, Abbasi faced financial and emotional hardships. Determined to sustain himself, he ventured into a small business selling fries. However, his deteriorating health often hindered his efforts. Diagnosed with severe heart disease years earlier, Abbasi had undergone pacemaker implantation to manage his condition, but the illness persisted, demanding frequent hospital visits.

In 2021, Abbasi completed Pakistan Press Foundation’s Investigative Reporting Fellowship.

Karachi Press Club President Saeed Sarbazi and Secretary Shoaib Ahmed expressed their sorrow. They prayed for his soul’s eternal peace and strength for his grieving family.

Photo from X account of Bakht Ali Abbasi

Born in 1943 in Jalandhar during World War II, Khaled Ahmed became one of Pakistan’s most respected analysts, known for his sharp intellect and deep understanding of sociopolitical issues. He graduated with an MA (Honours) from Government College Lahore, where he earned the Roll of Honour. His passion for languages led him to pursue diplomas in German from Punjab University and in Russian interpretation from Moscow State University in 1970.

Ahmed’s journalism career spanned over four decades, during which he made significant contributions to English-language media in Pakistan. After a brief tenure in the Foreign Service, he transitioned fully into journalism, contributing to renowned publications such as The Pakistan Times, The Nation, The Frontier Post, The Friday Times, and Daily Times. His last role was as a consulting editor for Newsweek Pakistan.

His literary legacy is distinguished by books that offer deep insights into Pakistan’s challenges. Notable works include Sectarian War: Sunni-Shia Conflict in Pakistan, written during his fellowship at the Woodrow Wilson Center in Washington, D.C., and titles such as Pakistan: The State in Crisis, Pakistan: Behind the Ideological Mask, Word for Word: Stories Behind Everyday Words We Use, and Pakistan’s Terror Conundrum.

Colleagues and contemporaries paid heartfelt tributes. Najam Sethi, who knew him since their college days, reminisced: “Khaled and I were pals from GC days in the sixties. Later, we worked together very closely in The Friday Times, Aajkal and Daily Times. He was one of the most learned men in the country. Soft-spoken, humble, modest and steeped in local culture, despite being a linguist, he was a source of prodigious knowledge. The saddest part is that he went unrecognised by the state.”

Talat Hussain remarked on Ahmed’s intellectual courage: “Through his work, Khaled Ahmed earned a reputation as a thoughtful and courageous voice, unafraid to challenge prevailing narratives and conventions. His passing leaves a void in Pakistan’s intellectual and journalistic landscape.”

Ejaz Haider, who worked alongside Ahmed at various publications, reflected: “Khaled Sahib and I go back to 1986, to the newly-launched The Nation. Later, in 1991, I had the opportunity to work with him on the editorial board of The Frontier Post. He was my mentor. Starting 1995, we were together again at The Friday Times and later at Daily Times, until 2009, sharing the same office which gave me the opportunity to imbibe his wisdom. He was an icon. It says something about this country that he has gone unsung. A country where people who have nothing compared to him are given honours.”

Syed Javed Nazir highlighted Ahmed’s editorial influence: “His editorial, columns and articles lent a new dimension to Pakistani English journalism. One essential hallmark of his writing was elegance in expression underpinned by a culture of detail. He was steeped in culture, both local and foreign. His training as a foreign service officer and subsequent posting in Moscow and Eastern Europe left a deep impact on his identity as an intellectual. Khaled Ahmed’s essential bonhomie won him life-long friends and strong support from those who admired his professionalism. He was a trend-setting editor but quite mercurial in disposition like most great editors are. His unique voice will continue to resonate among those who value truth.”

Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital by ambulance, Iqbal succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead upon arrival. Eyewitnesses confirmed that the vehicle involved sped away, leaving Iqbal critically injured at the scene.

The exact circumstances surrounding the accident remain unclear, though some reports suggest that chaotic road conditions, potentially exacerbated by alleged local traffic police extortion activities, may have played a role. Authorities have yet to confirm these claims, and the driver responsible for the accident remains at large as investigations continue.

Iqbal’s death has left colleagues and family mourning his sudden and tragic passing.

Shah had been a correspondent for Nawa-i-Waqt for 35 years. Several prominent figures attended his funeral prayer, including former Member Provincial Assembly (MPA) Functional Muslim League Faqir Muhammad Bakhsh Khaskheli, Pakistan Peoples Party leader Abdul Rahman Theem, former Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr. Abdul Majeed Chutto, Press Club Shahdadpur President Irshad Bukhari, President of Anjuman Tajiran Shahdadpur Alhaj Ghulam Dastagir Qureshi, Muttahida Qaumi Movement (Pakistan) Zonal Incharge Arif Sheikh, and Jamaat-e-Islami Shahdadpur Emir Asif Mahmood Qureshi.

He was laid to rest in the local graveyard.

His funeral prayers were held at Allah Wali Masjid, near his residence on September 18. Many people attended, including family members, fellow journalists, civil society representatives, and political leaders. He was buried in Naogoth graveyard near Dakk Road, Sukkur.

Several prominent figures, including Provincial Minister for Energy Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Mayor of Sukkur Barrister Arslan Sheikh, SSP Sukkur Amjad Ahmed Shaikh, and senior politician Advocate Sayed Shafqat Ali Shah, offered their condolences to Gonadal’s family. They praised his lifelong commitment to journalism and his significant contributions to the media industry.

The Sukkur Union of Journalists also expressed grief over his passing. It announced a three-day mourning period in his memory, acknowledging his role in promoting journalistic values in the region.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over Bajwa’s passing. She praised his contributions to journalism, saying, “Akhlaq Ahmad Bajwa’s dedication and honesty in his work have left a lasting impact. He will be greatly missed.”

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, also shared his grief, highlighting Bajwa’s commitment to truth and journalism. “The loss of Akhlaq Bajwa is a huge blow to our community,” he said.

Sajid’s association with the university spanned several decades, beginning in 1963 when he joined the teaching faculty of the Department of Journalism. He played a pivotal role in shaping the department’s trajectory, leading to its upgrade to the Department of Mass Communication in 1986. He served as chairman of the department from 1984 to 1988, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and its students.

Even after his retirement from teaching in 1988, Sajid remained connected to the university as a visiting faculty member, continuing to share his expertise and insights with future generations of journalists. His dedication to journalism education extended beyond the university, as he also served as the director of the Press Institute of Pakistan for 12 years.

KU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Iraqi expressed deep sorrow at the demise of Prof Sajid, prayed for his departed soul, and acknowledged his services in the field of journalism.

Nisar Zuberi, another former chairperson of the KU Mass Communication Department, fondly remembered Sajid. He highlighted Sajid’s instrumental role in the department’s development and his unwavering commitment to nurturing young journalists. Zuberi remarked on Sajid’s approachable nature and his ability to inspire students and colleagues alike, noting that his legacy would continue to influence journalism education in Pakistan for years to come.

The funeral prayers for Sajid were held after the Zuhr prayer at Masjid Ibrahim, Jamia Karachi, on July 18 and his burial took place at the Jamia Karachi cemetery.

Butt held positions at various prominent media outlets throughout his career, including Daily Jang, Such TV, and Azad Kashmir Radio Mirpur.

The President of AJK Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry expressed condolences, acknowledging Butt’s significant contributions to journalism.

News of Butt’s passing deeply saddened the local journalist community. Convener of the Jammu & Kashmir Free Media Association Altaf Hamid Rao, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Union of Journalists Hafiz Muhammad Maqsood, along with other leaders and members of the local press fraternity expressed deep shock and grief over the loss of this seasoned professional.

According to Dawn, Naji breathed his last on February 21. Naji served at daily Jang as a senior columnist for 27 years. He also served the Pakistan Academy of Letters as its chairman. In 2012, he joined Dunya as its group editor. The veteran journalist was awarded Hilal-i-Imtiaz. Caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi has expressed grief over his demise.

The Nation reported that Murtaza Solangi, the Caretaker Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Parliamentary Affairs, expressed profound grief and sorrow at the passing of Naji. In a condolence message, the minister conveyed his heartfelt prayers for the departed soul to find eternal peace and for the bereaved family to find strength in this difficult time. Reflecting on Naji’s lifelong dedication to journalism and service to the nation, Solangi paid tribute to his remarkable contributions.

Solangi described Naji as not only a seasoned journalist but also an insightful analyst who relentlessly pursued positive societal change through his journalistic endeavors. He emphasized the invaluable nature of Naji’s analyses and columns, acknowledging the significant void left in journalism by his passing.

Rashid A. Razvi was receiving medical care at a private hospital in Clifton. The funeral prayers for the prominent lawyer will take place tomorrow.

Profile

Mr. Rasheed A. Razvi was born on December 18, 1947, in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. His family migrated from Bombay to Karachi in the year 1956. He was brought up and educated in Karachi. He completed his BA (Hons) in 1969 and MA in Economics in 1970, both from the University of Karachi. He successfully completed his LLB from Government Islamia College in 1972, where he stood first class second. He joined the legal profession in the year 1973 and now has a legal standing of over 47 years.

In the month of November 1993, Mr. Razvi was appointed the Presiding Officer, Special Courts (Offences in Banks) Sindh at Karachi (with the status of a High Court Judge), a position he held till April 7, 1995. In the same year, Mr. Razvi was elevated as a judge of the High Court of Sindh. However, on January 26, 2000, he stood retired along with other honourable judges of the High Courts and Supreme Court who declined to take a fresh oath under the Provisional Constitution Order, 2000, promulgated by General Pervaiz Musharraf, a military dictator.

As a Judge of the High Court, he has to his credit several reported cases in various fields, including but not limited to civil, criminal, labor, constitutional, and intellectual property laws. As a lawyer, his efforts have resulted in some leading judgments of the Supreme Court, i.e. Supreme Court Bar Association case (PLD 2002 SC 939), Pakistan Bar Council (PLD 2007 SC 394), Chief Justice of Pakistan’s case (PLD 2010 SC 61), Sindh High Court Bar Association (PLD 2009 SC 879), Justice Khurshid Bhinder (PLD 2010 SC 483), Province of Sindh Vs. Rasheed A. Razvi (PLD 2010 SC 649), Baz M. Kakar (PLD 2012 SC 870), Watan Party (2012 SCMR 584), Gen. Pervez Musharraf’s case (PLD 2014 SC 585), the case of the 21st Amendment (PLD 2015 SC 401), and many other cases.

Mr. Razvi has also held several positions within the bar associations and bar counsels of the country. Mr. Razvi was elected as the General Secretary of the Karachi Bar Association in 1981 and it’s President in 1987. He was also elected as a member of the Sindh Bar Council for the term 1984–1989 and again for 1989–1994. During this tenure, he was twice elected as Vice Chairman of the Sindh Bar Council. He was elected President of the Sindh High Court Bar Association in the years 2000, 2008, 2009, and 2010. He was a member of Pakistan Bar Council (the regulatory body for all Supreme Court lawyers in Pakistan) from 2000 until 2020. He has also remained the Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Pakistan Bar Council. Mr. Razvi was elected President of the Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan in 2017.

Mr. Razvi was conferred the status of ‘Senior Advocate of Supreme Court of Pakistan’ in the year 2008.

Mr. Razvi has also participated in several international law conferences and human rights workshops and is a life member of the Common Wealth Judges and Magistrate Association (CMJA). He has also remained the President of the Pakistan Chapter of SAARC Law for more than 8 years, from 2009 until 2017.

Source: Samaa TV

Imam Bux popularly known as Zulif Peerzado has a vast journalistic experience of 35 years and he has remained affiliated with different Sindhi dailies including Daily Sindh Hyderabad, daily Pukkar Sukkur, daily Khabroon Karachi and other media organizations.

His association with daily Awami Awazi spanned 25 years.

The body of the deceased journalist was sent to Larkana where he will be laid to rest at his ancestral graveyard in village Balhreji near Dokri town later in the evening.

Source: Urdupoint

He was born in Lyari in 1950. He was known as a good football player before he chose journalism as his profession and worked in major Urdu dailies and magazines. He was a member of the editorial board of Urdu daily Express.

One of the politest and courteous journalists, he was known as ‘Shah Jee’ in the media fraternity. He was highly respected among reporters as he was known for helping them in their journalistic pursuits.

He authored two books — Balochistan Ka Muqaddama and Lyari Ki Kahani — and wrote short stories and poems for children.

His Namaz-i-Janaza was held at Pankhawali Street in Jahanabad and he was laid to rest at the Mewa Shah graveyard.

Source: Dawn

His family confirmed that Shaukat died in Rawalpindi. The funeral prayer for the deceased will be offered at 4pm at Dhok Ratta graveyard. 

Shaukat, with a career spanning over 50 years, had been actively involved in journalism, notably working for a prominent newspaper. 

He was a stalwart advocate for the rights of journalists and media workers, consistently raising his voice in their support. 

Condolence 

Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi expressed deep sorrow over the death of the veteran journalist. 

He said Shaukat would be fondly remembered for his significant contributions to journalism and his unwavering support for the community.

“The passing of Pervaiz Shaukat marks the end of an era in Pakistani journalism, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and dedication to the profession,” said the minister.

Source: Dunya TV

In a message, he paid rich tribute to Parveen Khan on rendering invaluable services in the field of journalism, saying that her services would be remembered for long.

The minister prayed that may Allah Almighty elevate the noble deeds of the departed soul and grant fortitude to the heirs to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

Source: Urdu point

At the age of 68, Ayaz succumbed to the effects of Parkinson’s disease, a condition he valiantly fought against for an extended period, according to private news channels.

Throughout his illustrious 41-year professional career, Ayaz left an indelible mark on the field of journalism, contributing significantly to various publications and earning respect for his insightful commentary.

Among his notable contributions, Ayaz authored several critically acclaimed books, including ‘What’s Wrong with Pakistan,’ a work that reflected his keen journalistic observations and deep understanding of the socio-political landscape.

The news of Babar Ayaz’s demise has sent shock-waves through the journalist fraternity and touched the hearts of individuals from diverse walks of life.

Colleagues, friends, and admirers of Ayaz are expressing their profound sorrow, remembering him as a stalwart in journalism who made invaluable contributions to the profession.

Source: Business Recorder

PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary-General Arshad Ansari, while recounting his contribution and his services for the cause of journalist community and his fight for their rights and press freedom, said that he would never be forgotten in all times to come.

“Minhaj Barna took even dictators eye balls to eye ball as he was a man of principle with an unbending passion for press freedom and rights of the downtrodden segments of the society.”They said that he is a beacon of light for the entire community, as he never surrendered, even during the worst of times, including the dictatorship of General Zia-ul-Haq. “We shall follow the footsteps of Minhaj Barna and uphold standards of journalism and media freedom, set by our seniors as we are duty-bound to safeguard those standards,” they added. Minhaj Barna joined the daily Pakistan Times in1950s and became the bureau chief of The Muslim when established in 1979.

Minhaj Barna emerged as an upright progressive journalist and trade unionist during the Ayub era of 1960s. He was elected to various offices of PFUJ. For his fearless criticism of the governments of the day, Minhaj Barna was sent behind bars a number of times.

Source: The News

She had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for some time. She was born on November 15, 1974, in Hyderabad. His parents hailed from Dadu.

In 1994, she started writing columns in daily Kawish in which she discussed social and economic issues of rural women of Sindh. She earned masters degrees in marketing and sociology, before getting Hubert Humphrey Fellowship from University of Maryland College Park, USA 2006-07.

She participated as a research scholar in seminars and conferences organised by the Centre of Gender Studies, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow (England). Apart from this, he also wrote a monograph on the killing of women in the name of honour in Sindh.

From March to June 2007, she served as a reporter and producer for the Voice of America programme ‘Beyond the Headlines’ and produced more than 50 talk shows on various political and social issues. She also worked for the Pakistan Television.

As a journalist. Anita wrote articles and columns in daily Ibrat, weekly Sindhu Digest, monthly Bakhtawar Magazine and other periodicals. In 2004, she founded CARE, a non-governmental social organisation, which was later registered as the Trust for Rural Uplift, Culture and Environment (TRUCE) in 2006.

The organisation is running a project in Matiari in collaboration with the UNDP Small Grants Programme. She received Khairul Nasa Jafari Literary Award and Khan Mohammad Panhwar Award for writing on women’s issues.

Source: The News

In a condolence message, the minister expressed his deep condolences and sympathy to the family of the deceased.

Murtaza Solangi said that the journalistic services of late Khalid Awan will always be remembered.

He prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear this loss with fortitude.

Source: Urdupoint

Born in Aimanabad near Gujranwala on March 24, 1923, Ahmed Bashir gained his Bachelor of Arts degree from Srinagar and went to Bombay for a career in acting but soon started writing for film magazines. After the partition of India, he came to settle permanently in Pakistan.

After the partition, Ahmad Bashir worked for several newspapers in Pakistan.

However, he is remembered for his days at Daily Imroze where he introduced feature writing in Urdu press. He also obtained training in film direction from Hollywood on a state scholarship.

Bashir also worked for the Department of Films & Publications and later for the National Film Development Corporation (NAFDEC). Bashir was also a portrait writer.

His book Jo Milay Thay Raaste Mein contains pen sketches of eminent literary personalities including Mumtaz Mufti,

Krishan Chandar, Meeraji, Chiragh Hasan Hasrat, Hasrat Mohani and Kishwar Naheed.

He also wrote an autobiographical novel “Dil Bhatkey Ga”.

In 1969, Bashir directed and produced an Urdu film, Neela Parbat.

He died on December 25, 2004 in Lahore.

Source: Associated Press of Pakistan

Source: The Nation

His funeral prayer will be offered today, Tuesday, at 11am in Mingora, Swat.Ghulam Farooq had been suffering from kidney problems for the last few years and was undergoing treatment in Islamabad.

He was known as a credible journalist in his native Swat as well as in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Like many other journalists in Swat, the late Ghulam Farooq was a caring man and was also famous for his hospitality.

Source: The News

“Rehmat Shah Afridi had lived a purposeful life and his contribution for promotion of quality journalism was immense in KP,” said Pir Habibullah Zakori, former Director General, Press Information Department, while talking to APP. Rehmat Shah Afridi brought out the Frontier Post from Peshawar when Muhammad Khan Junego government eased curbs on press in the dictatorial regime and run the newspaper with full editorial independence. After launching Frontier Post Peshawar in 1985, he said Rehmat Shah Afridi was a highly visionary leader as evidenced by his appointment of prominent journalist Aziz Saddiqui as its Editor and soon the newspaper had made its mark in the print media circle of Pakistan. Aziz Siddiqui had shaped the publication as one of the most progressive voices of the country that remained in the forefront of the struggle for safeguarding the rights of underprivileged and vulnerable groups in the society besides restoration of democracy in Pakistan . Rehmat Shah Afridi was pro-workers and was often seen taking lunch and dinner in the newsroom or reporting room with his colleagues, Syed Bukhar Shah, former President, Peshawar Press Club told APP. “Following the closure of Khyber Mail, Frontier Post Peshawar had provided an excellent opportunity to people of Khyber Pakthunkhwa to get accurate information, update themselves from the country’s issues, geopolitical environment of the region, sports, Afghans conflict and economic challenges,” he said. “The readership of Frontier Post was enormous due to its bold stance on regional and international issues and credible content on social, economic, environmental and politics besides a separate page on Afghanistan,” he said. Serving like an academy for young journalists, he said Frontier Post’s platform was always open for graduate and post graduate students who get internship and training in its competitive soothing environment. Salim Shah Hoti, a journalist turned lawyer said that he had found Rehmat Shah Afridi was highly humble and a journalist friendly personality. “When I joined Frontier Post Peshawar as staff reporter in 1993, I met with Rehmat Shah Sahib whose journalistic vision had impressed me a lot,” he said. He said Frontier Post grows with each passing day and it was also published from Islamabad, Lahore and Quetta. After positive response from people of Khyber Pakthunkhwa and other provinces, the management of Frontier Post also launched Pashto daily Hewad and Urdu Daily Maidan where a large number of journalists were trained professionally that served within and outside of the country. Salim Shah Hoti said despite all odds and pressure, Rehmat Shah Afridi had never compromised on principles and ran an independent foreign policy. He said Rehmat Shah Afridi had faced jail with bravery and steadfastness after he was arrested in a narcotics case in 1999 and was awarded life imprisonment. However, the apex court later acquitted him. He said Rehmat Shah Afridi was declared ‘prisoner of conscious’ by Amnesty International due to his longstanding struggle for media freedom and democracy in the country. Rehmat Shah Afridi was in jail when Frontier Post Office was set ablaze in Peshawar, he said. However, the publication of the national daily was soon resumed and continued today. “Rehamt Shah Afridi was like an institution and was a friend of journalists. His death saddened the entire journalist community of Pakistan,” said M Riaz, former President, Peshawar Press Club while talking to APP. “Whenever I met him, there was a smile on his face. I found him a thorough gentleman and balanced personality and his contribution for promotion of journalism in the country especially in KP would always be remembered in golden words,” he said. Barrister Feroz Jamal Shah Kakakhel, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Minister for Information and Public Relations has expressed profound sorrow and heartfelt condolences on the passing of the esteemed Rehmat Shah Afridi. A trailblazer in English journalism within the frontier region of Pakistan, Afridi’s departure has created an irreplaceable void in the media landscape. As the founder Editor-in-Chief of The Frontier Post, his enduring legacy and significant contributions to media in the region will be remembered with deep respect. Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Kakkhel said, “Rehmat Shah Afridi’s impact on English journalism in the frontier region has been monumental. His vision and dedication as the founder Editor-in-Chief of The Frontier Post have left an indelible mark on the industry.” The people of all walks of life are coming to the residence of the late Afridi and were offering fateha after he passed away of a protected illness.

Source: APP

Ikram — former Thomson Reuters journalist and pioneering program director of a private TV channel in Pakistan — succumbed to medical complications following a heart attack.

Ikram had suffered a massive heart attack earlier over the weekend, confirmed his family sources. He was serving as the news editor for Asia at the ICIS in Singapore before his demise at the age 59. 

Born in Rawalpindi on November 27, 1964 to then Pakistan Times’ chief reporter Ikramul Haq and Ms A Rasheed, Ikram initially attended St Mary’s Academy and later went to the Islamabad College for Boys.

Following the footsteps of his father, who had joined Dawn newspaper in 1948, Ikram embarked on his journalistic career from the PPI news agency as a budding reporter, after graduation from Gordon College in 1983.

Three years later, Ikram was part of the first ever Islamabad Bureau of the newly launched Lahore-based English language daily, The Nation and also served a brief stint as the capital correspondent of The Frontier Post.

By the turn of the century, however, his decade-long association with Thomson Reuters in Islamabad was proving a great learning experience. This offered a rare opportunity to blend his interest in economic reporting with administrative prowess as a senior correspondent, managing the team of fellow reporters in the Islamabad Bureau.

This led the way for his moving to Karachi to switch over to electronic media, first as director programs in CNBC Pakistan and then in a similar capacity at the launch of the private TV channel, as their founding programming director in 2007.

After a change at the senior management level led to confused editorial priorities in the following year, he left the channel and relocated to Singapore as the news editor at ICIS — a news agency with a specialised interest in the chemical industry.

Youngest of three siblings, Ikram is survived by wife Samra Tahir, two grown-up children. 

A large circle of friends and former colleagues mourn the sudden demise of senior journalist. His body will be flown to Islamabad for his funeral, time for which to be announced later this week.  

Source: Geo News

Source: Business Recorder

His funeral prayer was offered at Rehman Masjid in Nazimabad and he was laid to rest at the Muhammad Shah graveyard in North Karachi.

Besides his family and relatives, a large number of journalists, politicians and members of civil society attended his last rites.

He is survived by three daughters.

Ajmal Dehlvi was also elected as a member of the Senate from the platform of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement.

Born on August 14, 1936 in Delhi he migrated to Pakistan with his grandfather when he was in middle school. Graduated from the City College in 1956, he got his first job in Muslim. He, along with other journalists, was dismissed from service in 1972 due to a strike in the newspaper.

After being dismissed from the job, he along with all dismissed employees started their own newspaper Amn and became its news editor. After the death of Editor Afzal Siddiqui, he took his place.

During his journalist career, he remained close to former prime minister Benazir Bhutto and then MQM supremo Altaf Hussain.

Source: Dawn

He was the elder brother of Abdul Samad, senior journalist of Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) Lahore Bureau. His funeral prayers, Namaz e Janaza, are scheduled to be held after Isha prayer at Q-Block Model Town (Extension). The final tribute will gather friends, colleagues, and well-wishers to pay their respects to a man who dedicated the better part of his life to the noble profession of journalism.Having served with dedication and integrity, Abdul Qudus Kasuri contributed significantly to APP for over 35 years.

His commitment to the principles of journalism and his leadership within the Punjab trade union earned him the respect of his peers and the wider community

Source: Pakistan Observer

She penned research articles on media and communication, education, women’s issues and social
problems in different magazines and publications. Her books include Television Journalism and
Pakistan Studies in Focus. This year, her autobiography Sweet, Sour and Bitter — A Life Well
Lived was launched.
Her funeral prayers will be held at Jamia Masjid, Faizan-i-Bismillah, Sunny Side Road, Civil
Lines, after Zuhar at 1.15pm on Sunday (today). She will be laid to rest at the KU graveyard.

Source: Dawn

According to his family, he was diagnosed with lung cancer a few months ago, and his treatment was underway at a hospital in the city. On Thursday his condition deteriorated at home in Gulistan-e-Jauhar, where he took his last breath. His funeral would be held after the Friday prayer at Masjid-e-Khairul Amal in Incholi.

According to Hussain’s bio, he posted on his Facebook account, that he was born to a middle-class literary family in Bhopal on September 14, 1950. His parents migrated from Bombay (now Mumbai) to Pakistan on a ship in 1953. His father’s first posting was in Khanewal, then they moved to Karachi and lived in a house of 60 square yards in the C1 Area of Liaquatabad.

He was admitted to the Greenwood Secondary School on Jamshed Road, where he completed his matriculation in 1966 with distinction. He completed his higher education at the Sirajud Daula Government Degree College, the DJ Science College, and the University of Karachi.

He started his journalistic career in 1980 and worked for a number of Urdu and English media outlets, including Balochistan Times, Business Recorder, The Muslim, Financial Post, Daily Times, The News, The News on Sunday, Dawn, and many international media outlets as well.

He also wrote about many of his interesting memories from his career. He got three of his books published, while a fourth was in the pipeline. Before stepping into journalism, he was an active member of the National Students Federation. He also worked at the Consulate General of the then USSR in Karachi.

Source: The News