A solemn ceremony was held at the National Press Club in Islamabad to honor the memory of Nisar Usmani and C.R. Shamsi, founding leaders of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ). The event brought together a large number of journalists and leaders from the media community, who paid tribute to the significant contributions of the late leaders in defending press freedom and journalists’ rights in Pakistan.
The ceremony was addressed by several prominent figures, including PFUJ President Afzal Butt, Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) President Tariq Ali Warraich, National Press Club President Azhar Jatoi, former PFUJ Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi, former PFUJ Secretary-General Fauzia Shahid, RIUJ General Secretary Asif Bashir Chaudhry, National Press Club Secretary Nayyar Ali, RIUJ Senior Vice President Raja Bashir Usmani, Joint Secretary Gulzar Khan, former RIUJ President Mubarak Zaib, and Aamir Wasim.
Speakers highlighted the unwavering commitment of Usmani and Shamsi to press freedom, the strengthening of democracy, and the protection of journalists’ rights. They emphasized that both leaders dedicated their lives to these causes, guiding the journalist community through challenging times and standing firm against authoritarian regimes. Afzal Butt described Usmani and Shamsi’s struggles as a guiding light for today’s journalists, asserting that following in their footsteps is key to fulfilling their responsibilities.
Tariq Ali Warraich noted that the sacrifices made for the cause of free expression and free press should never be forgotten, describing these leaders as symbols of determination and resolve. He pointed out that attempts to suppress press freedom have been ongoing, but the journalist unions have consistently stood their ground and raised their voices in defense of these rights.
Nasir Zaidi and Fauzia Shahid also paid heartfelt tribute, urging the current generation of journalists to learn from the struggles of their predecessors so that restrictions on freedom of expression are not tolerated. Shahid recalled working alongside Usmani and Shamsi in the trade union movement, saying that although the era was tough, people persisted and spoke out for their rights.
Azhar Jatoi reflected on how the followers of Usmani and Shamsi have continued their legacy, noting Shamsi’s active participation in press club elections and his support for newly elected officers. Asif Bashir Chaudhry described both men as role models, highlighting the importance of speaking truth to power. Senior Vice President Raja Bashir Usmani called on everyone to renew their commitment to the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression, stressing the need for resilience.
Mubarak Zaib cautioned that journalists alone cannot bring about change and mentioned that divisions among journalists and civil society, often by design, are matters of concern. Aamir Wasim credited the PFUJ leaders for guiding journalists in the right direction, citing Usmani as a personal role model.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for the departed leaders, with attendees expressing their determination to uphold the values and struggles championed by Nisar Usmani and C.R. Shamsi in the ongoing quest for press freedom in Pakistan.
