JournalismPakistan.com | Published April 12, 2020
Join our WhatsApp channelPakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has expressed its deep sorrow and grief over the death of veteran journalist Ahfaz ur Rehman and announced three-day mourning across the country.
Rehman passed away in Karachi on Sunday after a prolonged illness. He had cancer and had been under treatment at the Aga Khan University (AKU) Hospital.
In a joint statement, PFUJ President Shahzada Zulfiqar and Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi paid rich tributes to the life-long struggle and sacrifices rendered by Rehman for press freedom in the country.
"Ahfazur Rehman was one of PFUJ's torch-bearers for the freedom of the press," the statement said. "He was always at the forefront of any movement launched by PFUJ against military rulers and oppressive regimes."
The PFUJ office-bearers said Rehman's struggle for freedom of expression would continue to be a guiding light for journalists.
During the three-day mourning, black flags will be hoisted at all press clubs, union offices as well as at places of work by journalists' unions.
The PFUJ leaders said Rehman's bold leadership and struggle for the rights of working journalists' since 1972 will always be remembered and continue to guide the PFUJ policies.
After his return from China, he was arrested and tortured during the oppressive regime of General Zia ul Haq, but he never surrendered and continued to raise his voice for freedom of press.
Even during the tenure of former military dictator Gen. Pervez Musharraf, Ahfaz remained at the forefront of the struggle when the ruler banned some TV channels.
"As president of PFUJ, Ahfaz ur Rehman constantly raised the issue of non-implementation of wage board award and challenged the owners and management of newspapers and media houses without any fear.
"With his death, we have lost a great trade unionist, a bold leader, a committed journalist, and above all, a man who had great personal integrity."
The statement said that Ahfaz worked to revitalize Karachi Press Club and always worked against those elements that at that time were bent upon de-politicizing the press club.
"We salute our former colleague and comrade Ahfaz ur Rehman's for his life-long struggle and that he will remain to live in the hearts of PFUJ members across the country," the statement said.
June 11, 2025: Pakistan celebrated a narrow win over Bangladesh, but beneath the jubilation lies a deeper crisis—from sidelined veterans to a collapsing domestic structure—signaling an urgent need for cricket reform.
June 11, 2025: Journalists walked out of the post-budget press conference in Islamabad to protest the absence of a technical briefing and the government's dismissive behavior, calling it unacceptable and intolerable.
May 31, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz has issued a defamation notice to Shoaib Akhtar over derogatory remarks made during a recent broadcast, reigniting a longstanding media feud between the two prominent figures in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has demanded the full repeal of PECA, citing its vague language, coercive powers, and threats to free speech and digital rights in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has condemned the murder of journalist Syed Mohammed Shah in Jacobabad, calling for urgent justice and improved safety for media professionals in Sindh.
May 26, 2025: In Rawalpindi, police allegedly side with Jang Group to block 66 reinstated employees from resuming work despite court orders, drawing sharp criticism from unions and press freedom advocates.
May 25, 2025: PFUJ condemns the Jang Group's decision to dismiss over 80 employees in Rawalpindi, calling it an 'economic massacre.' The union warns of nationwide protests if workers are not reinstated.
May 25, 2025: Daily Jang Rawalpindi has terminated over 80 employees, including female staff, despite multiple court rulings in their favor—raising concerns over labor rights violations and misuse of authority in Pakistani media.
May 19, 2025 PJS reports 219 Palestinian journalists killed in Israeli attacks since October 7, with 30 women among the victims. Over 430 were injured and 685 family members were killed. Read more on the systematic targeting of media in Gaza.
May 15, 2025 Discover the legacy of Samiullah Khan, Pakistan’s legendary "Flying Horse," whose breathtaking speed and artistry redefined hockey. From Olympic glory to World Cup triumphs, his story is one of myth, movement, and magic.
May 04, 2025 Algerian authorities suspend Echorouk News TV for 10 days after it used a racist slur against African migrants. ANIRA demands an apology, calling it a violation of human dignity.
May 04, 2025 NCHR and MMfD launch a journalism fellowship to train reporters on digital rights & gender inclusion in Pakistan. Supported by UNESCO, this initiative aims to bridge the gender digital divide. Apply by May 15, 2025!
April 23, 2025 Discover Dr. Nauman Niaz’s In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple & Triple Centuries 1876–2025, a profound exploration of cricket's most monumental innings, blending historical analysis with poetic narrative.