CM Shah Commits to Support Karachi Press Club Members

KARACHI: The Karachi Press Club (KPC) has long been a cornerstone for journalists in Pakistan, providing a platform for press freedom and advocacy. Recently, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited the KPC, where he made significant commitments to address the pressing issues faced by its members. This visit comes at a crucial time when the role of the press is more important than ever, especially in a democratic society.

During his visit, Chief Minister Shah announced the allocation of plots for 700 new members of the KPC, a move that has been eagerly awaited by many. He was accompanied by several provincial ministers, including Sharjeel Inam Memon, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, and Saeed Ghani, who collectively underscored the government's dedication to supporting the media community. The Chief Minister also approved various development projects, such as the construction of a boundary wall and other development schemes for Hawksbay’s housing society, as well as the leasing of plots in the Lyari Development Authority.

One of the most notable pledges made by Shah was the introduction of an 80/20 payment formula for KPC members in the Malir Development Authority. This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on journalists, allowing them to focus more on their work rather than financial constraints. Furthermore, Shah reassured the members that long-standing issues regarding the club’s lease would be resolved, which has been a source of concern for many.

In a show of gratitude, KPC President Saeed Sarbazi and Secretary Shoaib Ahmed expressed their appreciation for the Sindh government’s efforts, particularly highlighting the increase in the grant for the press club to PKR 70 million. This financial boost is expected to facilitate various improvements, including the development of the Hawksbay Journalist Colony and the installation of a solar system for the club.

Chief Minister Shah emphasized the vital role of the press as the “fourth pillar of the state,” reflecting on the historical significance of the press club in the struggle against dictatorship, particularly during the tenures of the late Benazir Bhutto and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He urged journalists to maintain the highest standards of journalism, warning against the misuse of the profession, which can tarnish the reputation of the media.

In addition to addressing KPC matters, Shah also touched on broader political issues, including constitutional reforms and the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. He reiterated that the proposed judicial reforms by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari align with the vision of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, showcasing a continuity of thought in the political landscape.

Moreover, the Chief Minister expressed concerns regarding K-Electric’s management and the need for provincial representation on its board. This highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the provincial government in ensuring that the needs of Sindh are adequately represented at the national level.

Addressing the recent tragic case of Dr. Shahnawaz’s death, Shah confirmed that the government is conducting a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the family. He also emphasized the importance of psychological evaluations for security personnel stationed at sensitive locations, a necessary step to enhance public safety.

Chief Minister Shah’s visit to the Karachi Press Club marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by journalists in Sindh. His commitments not only reflect the government’s recognition of the press's role in society but also its willingness to support and empower media professionals. As the landscape of journalism continues to evolve, it is crucial for both the government and the media to work collaboratively to uphold the values of truth and integrity, ensuring that the voice of the press remains strong and unyielding.