Latest news with #ShaheedMohtarmaBenazirBhutto
Business Recorder
02-08-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Murad celebrates 75 years of PFUJ's struggle
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah addressed the distinguished gathering at the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists' (PFUJ) Platinum Jubilee celebration, honouring the organisation's 75 years of unwavering commitment to press freedom. In his speech, he reaffirmed the historical significance of journalist unions in Pakistan, tracing their roots back to the establishment of the Sindh Union of Journalists in 1948 and underscoring the pivotal role they have played in advocating for the rights of journalists throughout the nation's tumultuous political history. During his address, CM Shah praised the contributions of the late former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who bravely stood against authoritarianism, and acknowledged the sacrifices made by journalists in the face of oppression. He highlighted the struggles faced by media professionals in contemporary times, including economic hardships and delayed salaries, urging for immediate reforms to protect journalists' rights and enhance their working conditions. Shah noted, 'Today's journalist faces a severe economic and professional crisis. Media organisations are under immense financial pressure, and many journalists go months without their salaries. When a journalist struggles to provide for their family, how can they raise their voice against injustice?' The CM also paid tribute to the late Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who was a steadfast advocate for press freedom. He recalled how she took concrete steps to address journalists' housing issues and led protests for media rights, reinforcing the PPP's commitment to supporting journalists at all costs. He stated, 'Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was the first national leader to take the journalists' housing problems seriously and acted decisively to find solutions. Her legacy is a testament to the importance of a free press in a democratic society.' Additionally, the Chief Minister highlighted the current efforts of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who continues to advocate for media rights and the welfare of journalists. 'Under Chairman Bilawal's leadership, we are committed to taking practical measures that prioritise the well-being of journalists and ensure the financial independence of media houses,' he said. 'A strong, independent, and free press is crucial for a robust, sovereign, and democratic Pakistan.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
02-08-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Bilawal lauds role of journalist community
KARACHI: Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has lauded the role of Pakistan's journalist community during the recent Pakistan-India conflict, describing them as a national asset. Addressing a ceremony at the Sindh Chief Minister's House marking the 75th anniversary of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), he commended the organisation's long and distinguished struggle for safeguarding freedom of expression and strengthening democracy during periods of authoritarian rule. He recalled a moment during the ARD-led struggle, saying: 'I remember the time when the then-dictator, in his final days in power, began imposing restrictions—even on television channels—and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto stood firmly with you (journalists), side by side.' While appreciating the role of Pakistani journalists during the recent Pakistan-India conflict, he said, 'I want to thank all of you for the way Pakistan's media and journalists countered India's false and disinformation-driven narrative on the global stage—it is truly commendable.' He added, 'I can proudly say that just as Pakistan's Air Force defeated India with a score of 6-0, our journalist community similarly outclassed the Indian media.' Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that prior to the war with India, there were restrictions on digital media, but the conflict made it clear that these platforms are, in fact, national assets. 'We are thankful that the government lifted those restrictions during the war, and to my knowledge, they have not been re-imposed since,' he said. He paid special tribute to Pakistan's Generation Z for their remarkable performance on the digital front during the war against India. Expressing hope, he said the federal government should take note of the journalist community's vital role and reconsider certain policies in recognition of their efforts. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari instructed Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon to continue arranging visits for journalists from other provinces to Sindh, so that accurate information regarding the development initiatives of the PPP's people-centric government could reach the wider public across the country. He pointed out that the Government of Sindh has introduced revolutionary measures in various public service sectors, including healthcare. He further highlighted that the project for the reconstruction of 2.1 million houses for the 2022 flood-affected population is the largest of its kind in the world. While speaking about Balochistan, he said that the province's issues and challenges are historical in nature and can only be resolved through substantial investment and dedicated efforts. He urged Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif to pay special attention and take concrete steps to accelerate the development process in Balochistan. He also called upon the journalist community to visit Balochistan and witness firsthand the challenges faced by the provincial government. Furthermore, he appreciated the Balochistan government's scholarship program for students under the leadership of Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti. Chief Minister Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugtti, and other dignitaries also addressed the ceremony. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari presented traditional Sindhi caps and ajraks as gifts to the leadership of the journalist community. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
10-07-2025
- Health
- Business Recorder
Every individual: Aseefa for renewed commitment to health, dignity and empowerment
ISLAMABAD/ KARACHI: On the occasion of World Population Day 2025, the First Lady of Pakistan Aseefa Bhutto Zardari calls for a renewed national commitment to the health, dignity, and empowerment of every individual; especially women, children, and youth across the country. 'On this day, we are reminded not only of numbers, but of the lives and stories behind them—of the mothers, children, and families who form the heart of our nation,' said the First Lady. 'Our focus must remain on ensuring that every mother is healthy, every child is safe, and every family is given the opportunity to thrive.' Pakistan continues to face critical challenges in maternal health, child welfare, and youth empowerment. In her message, the First Lady emphasized the urgent need for investment in family planning, education, social protection, and reproductive health services, the cornerstones of a strong and inclusive society. 'This is not merely a matter of development, it is a matter of dignity, equity, and justice. By prioritizing the well-being of our people, we secure the future of our nation,' she stated. The theme for this year's World Population Day, empowering young people to shape the families they want in a fair and hopeful world, resonates deeply with Pakistan, where a majority of the population is under the age of 30. The First Lady underscored the importance of creating opportunities for young people to lead fulfilling lives, free from discrimination, and equipped with the tools to make informed choices. 'Our youth are not only our future, they are our present. We must ensure they have access to quality education, comprehensive healthcare, economic opportunities, and a voice in decisions that affect them,' said HE Aseefa Bhutto Zardari. 'Empowering them is essential to building a just, peaceful, and sustainable Pakistan.' On this World Population Day, the First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of all Pakistanis and called on stakeholders across government, civil society, and the private sector to work in unity toward a future where every life is valued and every generation is empowered, reminding them of the words of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo, 'I dream of a Pakistan, of an Asia, of a world where every pregnancy is planned and every child conceived is nurtured, loved, educated, and supported.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
07-03-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Govt celebrates efforts to empower women
On International Women's Day, the Government of Sindh, under the leadership of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), celebrates its continued efforts toward advancing women's rights and empowerment, said the Spokesperson for Government of Sindh, Sukhdev Hemnani. Sukhdev Hemnani stated that Pakistan Peoples Party-led Sindh Government draws its inspiration from the life and teachings of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto - the world's first Muslim Prime Minister who broke barriers for all the women of Pakistan and provided this country a feminist leadership that opened a gateway of educational and work opportunities for women. Highlighting Sindh Government's commitment to the cause of women empowerment, Sukhdev Hemnani said that Sindh has enacted significant legislation aimed at strengthening protections around women that includes: Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2013; Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act 2013; Sindh Commission on the Status of Women Act 2015; Sindh Maternity Benefits Act 2018; Sindh Women Agricultural Workers Act 2019 etc.
