On September 4, journalists, rights activists, and political leaders voiced grave concern over mounting restrictions on press freedom in Pakistan, likening the current wave of censorship and intimidation to the curbs imposed during General Ziaul Haq’s military regime. The warnings came during two separate events in Islamabad, where tributes were paid to veteran journalists and union leaders Nisar Osmani and CR Shamsi, both remembered for their lifelong struggle for democratic rights and press freedom.
At a seminar hosted by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) at the National Press Club, speakers recalled the courage of Osmani and Shamsi during the martial law period. They stressed that their legacy remains a guiding light at a time when reporters face harassment, abductions, and violence. A candlelight vigil was also held outside the Dawn offices, where journalists, politicians and rights activists renewed their pledge to resist controversial laws such as the amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
In a statement issued on the occasion of Nisar Osmani’s 31st death anniversary, PFUJ described him as a “shining example of journalistic integrity” who left an indelible mark on both the journalist community and Pakistan’s democratic struggle. PFUJ president Afzal Butt and secretary general Arshad Ansari said Osmani, born the same year the colonial Press Act of 1931 was enacted, spent his life fighting against oppressive laws, challenging military rulers including Ziaul Haq, as well as successive civilian governments.
The statement highlighted Osmani’s career spanning more than four decades, during which he worked as a journalist, lecturer and trade unionist, always championing ethical journalism, workers’ rights and freedom of expression. His principled stance earned him nationwide and international respect, not only from journalists but also from human rights organisations. PFUJ said his courage, humility and intellectual honesty continue to inspire new generations of journalists and democracy advocates.
Those attending the commemorative events included PFUJ president Afzal Butt, former secretary general Nasir Zaidi, NPC president Azhar Jatoi, RIUJ president Tariq Virk, senior journalists Fauzia Shahid, Asif Bashir Chaudhry, Mubarak Zeb Khan, Tariq Usmani, former NPC president Shakeel Qarar, as well as PPP leader Farhatullah Babar and information secretary Tariq Ghouri. Participants collectively condemned attempts to “besiege” journalists by blocking access roads to the NPC, and vowed to follow in the footsteps of Osmani and Shamsi to defend press freedom, workers’ rights and democracy.
