National Press Club Islamabad and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists Workers held a condolence reference to honour senior journalist and former RIUJ Workers president Mazhar Iqbal. The event drew a large gathering of journalists from the twin cities, close relatives and friends, and was moderated by RIUJ secretary Hamidullah Abid.
Speakers including PFUJ Workers president Afzal Butt, National Press Club secretary Neer Ali, RIUJ president Tariq Ali Wark, Dr Saadia Kamal, Haji Nawaz Raza, Sadiq Anzar and Javed Malik paid tribute to Mazhar Iqbal, recalling his lifelong commitment to freedom of expression and the protection of workers’ rights. They emphasised that his courage and tireless work for journalists’ welfare set a standard for the profession.
Those on the platform noted that Mazhar Iqbal had long hoped for unity among journalistic organisations to end factionalism and pursue a common movement for workers’ rights. The gathering was described by speakers as a fulfilment of that aspiration, a fitting recognition that would bring comfort to his family and colleagues.
Nauman Mazhar, the late journalist’s son, and his daughter-in-law Zoya Nauman shared personal memories that moved the audience. The programme concluded with journalist Shabbir Usmani leading a prayer for the departed soul, as attendees remembered Mazhar Iqbal’s bravery and steadfast defence of journalistic values.
