Journalists Established Splendid Traditions During the Era of Dictatorship: Address by Iqbal Yousufi and Asad ur Rehman at Gojra Press Club Event

Newspaper Report from Daily Mashriq, Lahore (Dated: February 3, 1993)

 

Journalists Established Splendid Traditions During the Era of Dictatorship

While turning journalism into a profitable business, the country's future must not be put at stake: Asad ur Rehman

Newspaper Report from Daily Mashriq, Lahore (Dated: February 3, 1993)

GOJRA (From Our Correspondent) — Journalists had fearlessly established splendid traditions during eras of dictatorship, and now they must play their full role with patriotism, sense of duty, and integrity to strengthen democratic institutions, the nation, and the country so that all demands of this struggle are fulfilled in the best possible manner.

These views were expressed by the Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Chaudhry Asad ur Rehman, while addressing a prestigious gathering organized by the Gojra Press Club (Registered) at Government Islamia High School, Gojra, on the occasion of the club's fifth anniversary.

The event was attended by the Advisor to the Chief Minister of Punjab, Haji Muhammad Murad Khan Gadhi; Member of the Provincial Assembly, Chaudhry Amjad Ali Warraich; Chairman of the District Council, Chaudhry Muhammad Ashraf Jora; Director of Public Relations, Abdul Aala Wahid; President of the Pakistan Freelance Journalists Association (PFJA), Muhammad Iqbal Yousufi; city dignitaries; and a large number of journalists representing the entire district.

The Minister of State said that due to prolonged dictatorial regimes in the country, the citizens here remained unacquainted with democratic politics, and the journalism of that era also fell victim to it alongside the public. However, it is also a reality that the strengthening of democratic institutions in the country has brought a new consciousness and awareness to people belonging to every walk of life. He acknowledged that journalism is a tremendous power, and the cautious use of this power is absolutely essential because, through the better use of this sensitive power, democratic institutions, the nation, and the country can be made stronger than ever.

Federal Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Chaudhry Asad ur Rehman laying the foundation stone of the Gojra Press Club building.

He emphasized that while turning journalism into a profitable business, the future of the nation must not be put at stake. He further noted that journalism possesses enough power to make even the most prominent politicians unpopular among the public; therefore, journalists should demonstrate patriotism and a true sense of duty. He announced a grant of 100,000 rupees from his funds for the construction of the Gojra Press Club. Prior to this, he laid the foundation stone of the Press Club building.

Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Iqbal Yousufi stated that to maintain honesty, alignment, and dignity within the profession of journalism, journalists must execute their responsibilities in an exemplary manner.

Assistant Director of Public Relations, Muhammad Abid, presented a research paper on the importance of public relations, while the General Secretary of the Gojra Press Club, Navid Bukhari, highlighted the far-reaching and excellent results of the current government's sound policies. He added that the government should take necessary measures to resolve the issues faced by journalists.