Governor Mandokhail Urges Robust Press Freedom as Journalism and Governance Intersect at High-Profile BITT Event; Receives Nelson Mandela Honour

Independent Report
Quetta, April 21: Reaffirming the critical connection between democratic governance and independent journalism, Governor Balochistan Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail described free and courageous reporting as a cornerstone of accountability while speaking at an awards ceremony hosted by the Balochistan International Think Tank in Quetta.
The Governor, addressing participants at the ceremony, praised senior journalists of Balochistan for upholding professional standards, responsibility, and integrity in their work. He stressed that accurately reflecting ground realities remains a core duty of journalism, adding that constructive scrutiny and fearless expression play a decisive role in ensuring transparency and good governance.
During the event, he extended congratulations to journalists who were awarded international civil honours and also announced a formal dinner in recognition of the media community’s services. The gathering brought together key figures including Chairman BITT Owais Jadoon, President Quetta Press Club Irfan Saeed, General Secretary Muhammad Ayub Tareen, President BUJ Manzoor Ahmed, General Secretary Shah Hussain Tareen, and senior journalists Shahzada Zulfiqar, Syed Ali Shah, Saleem Shahid, Dr. Fareed Agha, Dr. Saadat, and Atiya Akram, among others.
A notable highlight of the ceremony was the conferral of the Nelson Mandela Award upon Governor Mandokhail by the Balochistan International Think Tank, named in honour of South Africa’s iconic leader Nelson Mandela. At the same time, journalists recognized for outstanding contributions in the province were awarded international civil honours bearing the names of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and Nisar Usmani.
In his remarks, the Governor stated that the event represented more than a ceremonial occasion, calling it an acknowledgment of the courage, public service, and professional dedication of journalists working across print and electronic media. He described it as a message of encouragement for those committed to freedom of expression.
Reflecting on his long political career spanning nearly four decades, Mandokhail noted that journalists have consistently remained close partners in public life, standing alongside political leadership and workers through various phases. He reiterated his continued support for the rights, protection, and welfare of media professionals, emphasizing that the press functions as a vital pillar of the state and a bridge between government and the public.
He further expressed satisfaction that press freedom is being upheld, stating that no journalist is currently detained in the province. He acknowledged the media’s role in representing public sentiment and giving voice to marginalized segments of society.
Commending the Balochistan International Think Tank for recognising journalistic contributions, the Governor said the awards named after national leaders reflect respect for those who uphold truth under challenging circumstances.
Concluding his address, Mandokhail appreciated the successful organization of the event and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding press freedom and strengthening democratic values, urging all stakeholders to work collectively for truth, accountability, and institutional stability.