The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) held a solemn memorial at the National Press Club, Islamabad, in honor of its founding leaders Nisar Usmani and C.R. Shamsi. The event was attended by a large number of journalists, union representatives, and leaders from the media fraternity.
Speakers included PFUJ President Afzal Butt, RIUJ President Tariq Ali Work, NPC President Azhar Jatoi, former PFUJ Secretary General Nasir Zaidi, former PFUJ Secretary General Fauzia Shahid, RIUJ General Secretary Asif Bashir Chaudhry, NPC Secretary Nayyir Ali, RIUJ Senior Vice President Raja Bashir Usmani, Joint Secretary Gulzar Khan, former RIUJ President Mubarak Zeb, and journalist Aamir Waseem.
The speakers paid rich tribute to Usmani and Shamsi, noting that they dedicated their lives to press freedom, democracy, and the protection of journalists’ rights. They were remembered as guiding lights during the toughest of times, fearlessly standing up to dictatorship and repression.
PFUJ President Afzal Butt said the struggles of these leaders remain a beacon for today’s journalists, urging the profession to follow their footsteps. RIUJ President Tariq Ali Work stressed that the sacrifices made for freedom of expression and independent journalism must never be forgotten, calling the late leaders symbols of courage and resilience.
Former PFUJ leaders Nasir Zaidi and Fauzia Shahid recalled working alongside Usmani and Shamsi during the trade union movement, noting their firm resistance during oppressive times. Shahid added that journalists today must draw inspiration from that struggle to ensure freedom of expression is never curtailed.
NPC President Azhar Jatoi highlighted Shamsi’s lifelong engagement with the Press Club and his support for elected representatives. Asif Bashir Chaudhry described both leaders as role models for journalists, while Raja Bashir Usmani urged the community to renew their commitment to carrying forward their mission for free expression.
Mubarak Zeb observed that while individual journalists cannot fight alone, political compromises and systematic division — even within PFUJ — have weakened the cause. Aamir Waseem emphasized that leaders like Usmani provided direction and clarity at critical moments.
The ceremony concluded with a prayer for the departed leaders.