Maryam Nawaz under fire for insensitive tweet about Arshad Sharif

JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 26 October 2022

Maryam Nawaz has been condemned for an insensitive tweet about journalist Arshad Sharif's death. The reaction from journalists highlights the ethical concerns surrounding her comments.
Summary

ISLAMABAD—Journalists reacted sharply and condemned PMLN leader Maryam Nawaz for her insensitive tweet over the death of Arshad Sharif.

The PMLN leader shared the picture of the journalist's coffin and tweeted to suggest that Sharif got what he deserved. "I don't feel good RTing this but this is a lesson for mankind that we must all imbibe."

Javeria Siddique, Sharif's wife, asked her to have some shame and fear of the Almighty.

The News journalist Ansar Abbasi termed it an "unethical and ill-timed tweet."

Khawar Ghumman of ARY News shared the tweet of the late journalist in which he expressed good wishes for Kulsoom Nawaz, mother of Maryam, while undergoing treatment in London.

Sara Taseer, was sarcastic. "When I think @MaryamNSharif can't go any lower she wins the challenge to prove me wrong. Big applause for belonging to the depths of the gutter. #ArshadShariff"

Anchor Meher Bukhari was livid. "Don't give lessons to mankind please ðŸ™ we are bleeding today & u trying to settle scores without wanting to seem like you are is adding insult to injury. Here are some examples of the man #ArshadSharif was."

She also shared tweets of the late journalist wishing good health to the late Kulsoom Nawaz.

Shahzeb Khanzeda of Geo News asked the PMLN leader to delete her tweet and apologize.

Analyst Mazhar Abbas said if the PMLN cannot condole Sharif's death, she should at least not hurt the family. "If you @MaryamNSharif can't express your condolence with the family of slain journalist @arsched at least don't hurt the family and friends at this hour. What else i can say except that kindly delete it and regret."

Commenting on the tweet, Kenyan journalist Kathy Peterson said, "Maryam Nawaz represents the very worst of Pakistan!"

Siddique Jan, who works for BOL News, claimed that the PMLN leader's tweet aimed to make Sharif's killers happy.

Photo credit: AFP

KEY POINTS:

Maryam Nawaz tweeted an insensitive comment post Arshad Sharif's death.
Journalists and the public have reacted strongly against her tweet.
Calls for Nawaz to apologize and delete her tweet have emerged.
Critics highlight the need for empathy in response to tragedies.
Sharif's contributions were recognized by those sharing past tweets in his honor.