JournalismPakistan.com
November 29, 2021

ISLAMABAD—As the death of veteran journalist Muhammad Ziauddin was announced on Monday morning, tributes and condolences poured in from journalists and politicians.

Mazhar Abbas said Ziauddin was an iconic figure. "Veteran and one of the most outstanding journalist of Pakistan M. Ziauddin Ahmad has passed away. He was an iconic figure and a guide for all the young journalists. May Allah give his family strength to bear the loss."

Nighat Dad was saddened at the death of a "fearless journalist." "Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of fearless veteran Journalist @MuhammadZiauddi who was an intellectual giant of journalist community. A role model for many in his profession & beyond, his demise ends an era of journalism of courage,ethics and values. May he rests in peace."

In a tweet in Urdu, Hamid Mir said he had learned a lot from Ziauddin.

PTV also paid homage to Ziauddin for his "illustrious career" of 60 years. He served as editor of leading dailies, The News and Dawn.

For Nasir Jamal, he was one of the finest journalists in Pakistan. "Ex-editor Dawn Islamabad @MuhammadZiauddi Sb is no more. One of the finest and upstanding journalists and among the pioneers of economic journalism in Pakistan. Always very kind to his juniors like us. Rest in Peace sir"

In his Facebook post, Anwar Iqbal, Washington correspondent of Dawn, said Pakistan had lost an honest and dedicated journalist. "Our generation learned much from him. We also learned to love this gentle soul. We are poorer without him!"

Zaigham Khan said generations of media persons will remember Ziauddin for his honesty, integrity, and contribution to journalism.

Arshad Sharif termed the death of the veteran journalist a personal loss. "The death of @MuhammadZiauddi is a personal loss. He was a mentor. An Editor who always stood by his reporters. 'Always push the limits,' were his words of inspiration for me whenever pressures of censorship confronted. 'Write simple words in your stories,' & so on. RIP. Broken heart."

Abbas Nasir, a former editor at Dawn, said he had lost a personal friend. "Waking up to the devastating news Ziauddin Sahab is gone. An iconic journalist; a personal friend of 35 years; a senior who was generous with his counsel and love; and a giant who stood up to autocrats for over 50 years. I am so much the poorer for his loss. Rest in peace, Sir."

Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry termed Ziauddin as a "fiercely independent journalist." "One of the most capable fiercely independent journalist I came across with has left for his final abode #Ziauddin was no commoner a wise man—integrity and boldness added to his personality… you will be missed Zia sb… RIP."