ASMA Jehangir was Pakistan’s iconic human rights activist and an intelligent lawyer. The UN human rights award was received by her lucky daughter on behalf of her late mother at an impressive ceremony in the UN General Assembly Hall in New York on Dec 19.

Asma Jehangir was lauded by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, while UN High Commission of Human Rights Michelle Bachelet appreciated her contribution to human rights and the rule of law. Asma Jehangir made Pakistan proud as she was among the four winners of the award which was announced by the UN in October 2018.

Ms Jehangir also served as the UN Special Rapporteur on Extrajudical Execution and UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion and Belief for more than a decade and was recognised for her outspoken nature and unrelenting purist of human right.

She wanted to see a true democratic and more inclusive Pakistan. We are proud of you, Asma Jehangir, as you have brought pride for our beloved country, Pakistan.

Munawar Hameed Mangalwala
Karachi

Published in Dawn, December 25th, 2018