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 was attended by a large number of journalists and prominent representatives of the media industry, who paid tribute to the lifelong contributions of the two leaders in advancing press freedom, democracy, and the rights of journalists.
During the ceremony, PFUJ President Afzal Butt, President of the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists Tariq Ali Work, 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 Ms. Nayyir Ali, senior RIUJ Vice President Raja Bashir Usmani, Joint Secretary Gulzar Khan, former RIUJ President Mubarak Zeb, and Aamir Wasim were among those who addressed the gathering.
Speakers highlighted that Nisar Usmani and C.R. Shamsi devoted their lives to the cause of press freedom and the protection of journalists’ rights. Their unwavering stance against dictatorship and guidance during challenging times were widely praised, with many stating that their services would always be remembered in golden words.
Afzal Butt described the struggle of both leaders as a guiding light for current journalists, emphasizing that following their example was the best way to uphold journalistic responsibilities. Tariq Ali Work underlined that sacrifices made for freedom of expression cannot be forgotten and that such leaders serve as symbols of commitment and resilience for the profession.
Nasir Zaidi and Fauzia Shahid urged contemporary journalists to learn from the determination and unity shown by the two late leaders, cautioning against any restrictions on freedom of expression. Fauzia Shahid recalled collaboratively working with both Nisar Usmani and C.R. Shamsi in the trade union movement, describing the difficult climate in which they continued to raise their voices for press freedom despite adversity.
Azhar Jatoi remarked that the followers of Nisar Usmani and C.R. Shamsi have continued their legacy within the Press Club, particularly highlighting Shamsi’s active participation in club elections and his support for newly elected office-bearers. Asif Bashir Chaudhry noted that both leaders were role models, demonstrating that journalism meant speaking truth to power.
Raja Bashir Usmani called on attendees to renew their commitment to the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression, expressing resolve never to lose hope. Mubarak Zeb observed that individual journalists had limited power in isolation and pointed out the need for greater awareness about the division that has emerged within civil society, political circles, and the journalist community itself—a development he described as concerning.
Aamir Wasim closed the discussion by acknowledging the vital leadership provided by PFUJ’s founders and the personal inspiration drawn from Nisar Usmani. The ceremony concluded with a prayer for the departed leaders.
