ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (Workers) organised a ceremony at the National Press Club in Islamabad in connection with World Press Freedom Day to honour senior journalist and leader Fareeda Hafeez for her distinguished services to journalism.

A large number of prominent personalities from media, social and literary circles attended the event, describing it as a memorable occasion for the journalistic community.

Speakers, including Fauzia Shahid, Dr Sadia Kamal, Finance Secretary Abid Abbasi, Javed Malik, Iftikhar Shirazi, Mazhar Arif, Ayesha Masood, Bushra Iqbal Hussain, Tahir Mahmood, Shahid Usmani, Hasna Khattak, Bashir Chaudhry, Wafa Chishti, Maheen Malik, Tanzila Mazhar and Shoaib Bhutta, paid tribute to Ms Hafeez’s long, principled and dignified career.

They noted that senior journalists are a valuable national asset and a living chronicle of the country’s history, having consistently upheld truth and strengthened the credibility of the profession.

The speakers emphasised that the younger generation of journalists should seek guidance from their senior counterparts and adopt the highest professional standards to fulfil their responsibilities with honesty, courage and impartiality.

They added that the challenges currently confronting journalism could only be effectively addressed through unity, professional competence and an unwavering commitment to truth.

In her address, Fareeda Hafeez said that freedom of expression in Pakistan has faced persistent challenges in different periods, yet journalists have continued to perform their duties with responsibility and resilience despite mounting pressures. She observed that journalism is a sacred profession grounded in truth, integrity and the protection of public interest.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, PFUJ Workers President Dr Sadia Kamal, along with office-bearers Javed Malik and Ayub Barmi, presented bouquets and commemorative gifts to Ms Hafeez in recognition of her outstanding contributions. Participants also reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding press freedom, upholding professional values and continuing to highlight the services of senior journalists in the future.

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2026