Karachi – Report by Agha Khalid

Preparations for a landmark event marking 75 years of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) are in their final stages, as senior journalists from across the country are set to gather in Karachi for a historic and memorable celebration.

The event, which is expected to be one of the largest journalist gatherings in recent times, is being held under the guidance of PFUJ’s central leadership, with veteran journalists Afzal Butt, Arshad Ansari, and prominent analyst Mazhar Abbas playing a central role in organizing and coordinating the initiative.

High-Level Meeting with Chief Minister of Sindh

In a significant development, a two-member delegation led by Mazhar Abbas, senior journalist and leader of PFUJ, along with Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ) President Tahir Hassan Khan, met with Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah at the Chief Minister House.

During the meeting, CM Murad Ali Shah was formally invited to attend the grand celebration to be held on August 2, 2025, at the historic Khaliq Dina Hall on MA Jinnah Road in Karachi. The choice of venue holds symbolic significance, as it was exactly 75 years ago in this very hall that the foundation of PFUJ was laid during a KUJ meeting to address national journalistic challenges and to defend freedom of the press.

The Chief Minister graciously accepted the invitation and appreciated the long-standing contribution of PFUJ to democratic society and journalistic integrity in Pakistan.

Distinguished Guests, Documentary Showcase, and Tribute to Press Freedom

According to the organizing committee, the Mayor of Karachi, Murtaza Wahab, will serve as the official host of the ceremony, and has arranged a formal dinner in honor of more than 300 invited guests.

The event is expected to be attended by prominent personalities from all walks of life, including:

• Senior journalists from all provinces
• Political leaders and social activists
• Notable intellectuals and former journalists
• Members of civil society and diplomatic circles

The highlight of the evening will include short speeches, a special documentary film detailing the history and sacrifices made by PFUJ for press freedom, and the showcasing of rare archival footage and photographs on life-sized screens.

The organizers have also hinted that Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari may attend the ceremony as a chief guest, though his participation is subject to final confirmation.

Warm Hospitality and Official Support from Sindh Government

CM Murad Ali Shah, during the meeting, praised the contributions of senior journalists and acknowledged the vital role PFUJ has played in the struggle for democracy, civil rights, and freedom of expression in Pakistan. He extended a special offer to host a dinner at the Chief Minister House in honor of the senior journalists coming from across the country. The offer was gratefully accepted by the delegation.

The meeting was also attended by Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon and Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, who both assured full cooperation and logistical support for the event.

Earlier, senior journalists Mazhar Abbas, Lala Asad Pathan, Tahir Hassan, and KUJ General Secretary Sardar Liaqat Kashmiri met Minister Sharjeel Memon in his office. During the meeting, Minister Memon also offered to host a dinner for the guest journalists at a major hotel in Karachi.

Arrangements for Out-of-City Delegates

One of the critical aspects discussed in the planning meetings was the hospitality for guest journalists arriving from other cities. Minister Sharjeel Memon assured the KUJ delegation that the Sindh government will facilitate accommodation, transport, and meals for all incoming guests.

Going a step further, he has issued special instructions to senior officials of the Sindh Information Department to assist with the preparations and ensure seamless execution of the event.

The commitment from the Sindh government is being seen as a strong message of solidarity with Pakistan’s media community, reinforcing the government’s recognition of the vital role independent journalism plays in national development and democratic sustainability.

A Symbolic Milestone in Pakistan’s Journalistic History

The 75th anniversary of PFUJ is being celebrated not just as a ceremonial milestone, but as a symbol of resistance, resilience, and dedication. From dictatorship-era crackdowns to modern-day censorship challenges, PFUJ has stood as a shield of truth and press freedom in Pakistan.

This upcoming event is expected to serve as a platform for:

• Reconnecting with veteran journalists who have been off the scene
• Honoring past sacrifices and charting the future roadmap
• Discussing unity and responsibility in a rapidly evolving media landscape

Organizers aim to use this platform to send a unified message: “A free press is non-negotiable in a democratic society.”

Conclusion

As August 2 approaches, excitement builds for what is shaping up to be a landmark event in Pakistan’s journalistic history. With active participation from federal and provincial leaders, elite media figures, and civil society, the PFUJ’s 75th-anniversary celebration is expected to leave a lasting legacy.

It will not only honor the past but also energize the future of press freedom in Pakistan.

Let me know if you’d like this translated into Sindhi or summarized for social media/news ticker.