The journalism community mourns the loss of Rehmat Shah Afridi, the visionary founder and senior journalist of The Frontier Post, who peacefully passed away at the age of 74 on Saturday.
Afridi’s funeral prayer was offered on Sunday at 11:00 A.M. in Bagh-e-Naran, Hayatabad which was attended by people from all walks of life.
Survived by his four sons—Mahmood Ullah Afridi, Jalil Afridi, Bilal Afridi, and Ahmad Shah Afridi—Afridi’s departure marks the end of an era in English journalism in the frontier region of Pakistan.
Punjab’s Provincial Minister for Information, Amir Mir, expressed profound sorrow at the passing of Rehmat Shah Afridi, the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ‘The Frontier Post’ Daily. Amir Mir paid glowing tributes to Afridi for his unwavering commitment to independent journalism. He acknowledged Afridi’s courage in opposing dictatorship during the Martial Law regime, even facing the consequences.
Mir highlighted Afridi’s significant achievement in launching the first and only national English newspaper, ‘The Frontier Post,’ in KPK province. This newspaper gained widespread recognition nationally and internationally in a remarkably short time.
Amir Mir emphasized Afridi’s role in stirring curiosity and unrest in investigative journalism, despite facing challenges and imprisonment. Mir concluded by acknowledging Afridi’s enduring contributions to journalism, expressing that his legacy will be remembered.
He extended prayers for Allah Almighty to elevate Afridi’s noble deeds and provide strength to his grieving family.
Journalist and Human Rights Defender Asim Malak while speaking to The Scoop said that The Frontier Post (TFP) had a profound impact on his career and that of many journalists in Pakistan. Rehmat Shah Afridi, the Editor in Chief of TFP, faced imprisonment orchestrated by vindictive Nawaz Sharif due to the publication of the NS Sugar Mill story, fearing a death sentence. This unique and courageous newspaper, with its independent policies and corruption exposés, made Shah sahib a victim.
Despite facing pressures from the cowardly, corrupt, and hypocritical figures of PML(N), he stood firm, refusing to compromise his principles. His nine years in prison couldn’t be erased, but they showcased his unwavering commitment to integrity and professionalism. May God grant him eternal peace.
As the founding Editor-in-Chief of The Frontier Post, Afridi’s imprint on the media landscape is profound. More than a newspaper, he established a university of journalism, fostering a community where knowledge was shared, skills were honed, and a commitment to truth and integrity was instilled in every journalist.
Afridi’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements; he was a mentor and trailblazer who fearlessly challenged the status quo. His courage and commitment to journalistic ideals will be remembered as a benchmark for generations to come.
In celebrating Afridi’s life, let us also honor the rich legacy he leaves behind. The Frontier Post, a testament to his vision and commitment to excellence, stands as a reminder of his tireless efforts to bring forth the truth.
As we bid farewell to this luminary, let us, in the spirit of his values, uphold the principles of integrity, truth, and fearlessness in our pursuit of knowledge and justice. May Rehmat Shah Afridi’s soul rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire countless others to follow in his footsteps.
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