KARACHI, May 31: In the death of Tahir Mirza, not only the journalist fraternity but society as well has lost a torch-bearer of decency, human values and a cultured human being who will always be missed by colleagues, particularly in their hours of trial and tribulation.

Paying homage to their former colleague, speakers at a condolence meeting of the KUJ’s Dawn Unit, held here in the paper’s newsroom on Thursday, recalled their association with the man who left the organisation when he was at the peak of his career and showed no sign of a fatal disease.

Zubeida Mustafa said Tahir Mirza had great qualities as a human being and as a journalist. His pleasant personality, courtesy and thoughtfulness made him an easy person to work with. He excelled as a leader-writer and commentator who took his work seriously. His understanding of politics showed a deep insight and intellect, she said.

Terming the death an irreparable loss, senior journalist Murtaza Razvi said Tahir Mirza was a model of decency and a likeable editor to report to.

Consultation, as opposed to giving orders, always defined the way he worked, Mr Razvi said. “He led by example and expected others to put in their best.”

Sabihuddin Ghausi said Mirza Sahib was a thorough gentleman and a good friend of his colleagues. Rafique Jalal said the former editor always listened with sympathy to employees’ pleas for pay raise. Habib Khan Ghori said Tahir Mirza’s behaviour was an inspiration for his juniors.

The meeting adopted a resolution praising the services rendered by Tahir Mirza for the cause of journalism.

“May Allah rest his soul in eternal peace and grant courage and fortitude to the members of the bereaved family,” the resolution said.