Veteran Journalist Muhammad Nawaz Raza Reflects on 50 Years in Media, Politics, and National Affairs

How Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Raza, veteran columnist, and journalist went through his path of journalism and what he thought about the present political, regional, and media dynamics in an exclusive interview with Mr. Muhammad Ali Pasha.

Q: To you Mr. Nawaz Raza, how did you start your career in journalism?

Nawaz Raza: I entered the world of journalism in 1970 as a journalist of Daily Jasarat. It was very learning times and I enjoyed the initial years a lot. Subsequently, I worked with the Daily Nawaiwaqt but spent almost forty years there and during the stint, I was able to work under the supervision of the late Majeed Nizami. He was a meticulous professional who went through all the articles himself when they were about to be published. My career in journalism has exceeded 50 years and it has been a rewarding and an honorable journey.

Q: What is your opinion about the political scenario in Pakistan?

Nawaz Raza: According to me, the former government under the previous prime minister Imran Khan is to blame mostly in the cause of economic sufferings in Pakistan. The nation was putting its head on the edge of bankruptcy. In my opinion, the present government, though facing problems, can be credited with guiding Pakistan to pull back to that edge. Meanwhile, I also think that the supporters of Imran Khan are in the same position that needs to rise and support him so that they can believe in his vision.

Q: What would you regard as the principle of cooperation between the PML-N and the PPP?

Nawaz Raza: The former government was the coalition which was formed on an understanding agreement between the President Asif Ali Zardari and the former Prime Minister Nawaz Shirf. This was not a union of the ideologies, but a marriage of convenience. Now PPP is not a government member, but occupied very important constitutional posts within the system of the coalition.

Q: What is your opinion as to how Pakistan was treating the Taliban regime in Afghanistan?

Nawaz Raza: Pakistan is on the side with the United States and therefore, in that regard, it is offering support to the Taliban regime, to some extent. One should, however, bear in mind that the Pakistani government has not officially accepted the Taliban government as real.

Q: Do you project any future in the relations of Pakistan-Bangladesh?

Nawaz Raza: Yes, sure. I find that there is so much scope of better and positive relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh. When both the nations become strategic partners, particularly to act as a counterweight to India, it will amount to a strong diplomatic shift. In Bangladesh, I traveled in 1994, and I met a large number of people, who were very affectionate towards Pakistan. That goodwill remains there.

Q: What do you think of Khalistan?

Nawaz Raza: Pakistan does it out of moral reasons because it backs the Khalistan. It can be seen that Indian government cannot be trusted by its Sikh population. We are of the view that the Sikhs need to be taken seriously and treated equal and we shall always give them moral support in their struggle.

Q: Do you believe that Indus Waters Treaty is still effective nowadays?

Nawaz Raza: even after the Indus Waters Treaty is still in existence, Pakistan has not taken full advantage of its share in the water whereas India has been on rampage with regards to construction of dams. Still, in my opinion, the treaty will still be effective and it cannot be overlooked simply.

Q: How do you look upon the continuing Kashmir conflict?

Nawaz Raza: There has been extraordinary resilience of people in the Indian-occupied- Kashmir. There have been several where people opted to be buried with Pakistani flags as a very strong sign of fellowship. I believe and I am optimistic that someday Kashmir shall fall into the hand of Pakistan.

Q: Where do you think print media is headed among this age of digital media?

Nawaz Raza: In spite of the fact that digital platforms are flourishing, I am optimistic that print media will still be effective. It has a credibility that no one can neglect. The newspapers continue to perform an essential task of ensuring an informed opinion.