Senior Journalist Syed Sarfraz Hussain Zaidi laid to rest in Ahmedpur East
RMNP President Ehsan Ahmed Sehar Pays Tribute; Condolence Reference Announced
Ahmedpur East: Senior journalist Syed Sarfraz Hussain Zaidi, President of the Ahmedpur Union of Journalists (Workers), was laid to rest at Azmat Sultan Graveyard after funeral prayers attended by a large number of journalists, lawyers, civil society members, and local residents.
Syed Sarfraz Hussain Zaidi passed away following a brief illness. He was 78 years old. He is survived by his widow, two sons, and two daughters. He was widely known for his principled journalism and longstanding role in strengthening journalists’ organisations and professional ethics at the local level.
In a statement, Rural Media Network Pakistan (RMNP) expressed deep sorrow over his demise. RMNP President Ehsan Ahmed Sehar paid tribute to the late journalist, describing him as a committed colleague who remained actively engaged in journalistic struggles and advocacy for press freedom. He termed the loss a significant one for the journalistic community.
RMNP noted that the late Syed Sarfraz Hussain Zaidi had earlier participated in UNESCO and RMNP training programmes, reflecting his commitment to professional capacity building and responsible journalism.
Highlighting the risks faced by journalists and their families, RMNP recalled that the late journalist’s son, Syed Owais Zaidi, a court reporter, was shot after publishing a corruption-related story in his newspaper. He sustained serious injuries in the attack. In recognition of his courage and commitment to press freedom, RMNP conferred upon him the RMNP Sadiq Press Freedom Cash Award in 2024.
It was further announced that a condolence reference in memory of Syed Sarfraz Hussain Zaidi will be held on Sunday, 25 January, at 2:00 pm at the Ahmedpur East Press Club, jointly organised by the Press Club and the Ahmedpur Union of Journalists (Workers). Journalists and colleagues will pay tribute to his journalistic and educational services on the occasion.
