Islamabad – Under the auspices of the Fourth Pillar Media Watchdog, a condolence meeting was held in memory of the late senior journalist Mazhar Iqbal, where tributes were paid to his journalistic services and principled stance. Addressing the meeting, the speakers said that Mazhar Iqbal’s passing is an irreparable loss for the world of journalism; his struggle serves as a guiding torch for the new generation, and it is everyone’s responsibility to carry forward his mission.
The meeting was presided over by Farooq Mirza, Chairman of the Fourth Pillar Media Watchdog. In his address, he stated that Mazhar Iqbal always championed truth and justice. He was actively involved in the welfare of underprivileged journalists and, in collaboration with the Fourth Pillar, had helped thousands of journalists. He emphasized that all journalistic organizations must end their disagreements and unite as one voice to effectively struggle for their rights.
Numan Mazhar, son of the late Mazhar Iqbal, said that his father always dreamed of the welfare of disadvantaged journalists. He would continue this mission in collaboration with Farooq Mirza and other colleagues. He appealed to all journalists to play their role in carrying forward the late journalist’s mission.
Haji Nawaz Raza, President of the Pakistan Federal Unions of Journalists (PFUJ Constitution), said that Mazhar Iqbal’s departure has created a huge void, but his legacy urges us to end mutual discord and unite as one voice.
Pir Abdul Razzaq Chishti, Secretary of Information for the RIUJ Workers, said that the late journalist always raised his voice for the oppressed classes and held high the banner of truth.
Tawseef Ahmed Malik, Vice President of PFUJ Workers, said that Mazhar Iqbal was a true and characterful journalist who never compromised on principles.
Shahzad Malik, a senior journalist, said that the late journalist’s life is an example for young journalists, and his struggle will always be remembered.
Raja Khawar Nawaz, President of the Kashmir Journalists Forum, said that the late journalist’s mission is now a shared duty for all. He stated that, as Numan Mazhar has appealed, we will all work together for the welfare of underprivileged journalists.
Tariq Mahmood Chaudhry, President of the APP Employees Union, said that Mazhar Iqbal’s services will always be remembered because he embodied truth and principled conduct.
Shakeel Ahmed Qarar, former President of the National Press Club, said that journalists like Mazhar Iqbal continued to help thousands of underprivileged journalists. His struggle was a flame that still burns. He added that the void in the world of journalism can only be filled by ending discord and uniting as one voice.
Farooq Faisal Khan, a senior journalist and former President of the Press, said that, as Farooq Mirza mentioned, the platform of the Fourth Pillar is open, and it is everyone’s responsibility to advance the late journalist’s mission.
Tariq Usmani, President of RIUJ (Brna), said that Mazhar Iqbal’s passing is not only a great shock for his family but also for the journalistic community; however, his name will always be taken with respect and honor.
Shakeel Ahmed, Secretary General of PFUJ (IFJ), said that the late journalist’s struggle and legacy serve as a guiding torch for the new generation of journalists.
Tanveer Awan, General Secretary of the Fourth Pillar Media Watchdog, said in his closing remarks that Mazhar Iqbal’s struggle and legacy will always provide guidance, and the platform of the Fourth Pillar will remain available for journalists’ rights.
The meeting was also attended by prominent journalists and media personalities from across the country, including Syed Adil Shah, Editor-in-Chief of Pakistan Khapay; Syed Bilal Izat Naqvi, Saifullah Saif, Editor-in-Chief of Markaz Group; Raja Adnan Shamaila Noreen, Vice President of APP Employees Union; Sanam Junejo, Information Secretary; Rakshanda Taj Baloch; Tahir Mahmood, Joint Secretary; Zahir Shah Kazmi; Hassan Raza; Aamir Nawaz Khan; Faryal Fatima; Shaishta Hassan; Rana Qasir; and Dalshad Hadi.
On this occasion, it was announced that Raja Javed, Editor-in-Chief of Shahnama, would organize the “Mazhar Iqbal Memorial Hockey Tournament” in memory of the late journalist. The meeting concluded with prayers for the eternal peace of the soul of the late Mazhar Iqbal and expressions of condolences to the bereaved family.
