"Your efforts will not be forgotten.”
Pakistani celebrities have taken to social media to pay tribute to senior journalist Arshad Sharif, who was shot dead in Kenya.
It was reported that he was shot dead by police on the Nairobi-Magadi highway on the night of October 23 in a case of mistaken identity.
However, the police statement raised questions as some believe Arshad was actually assassinated.
Kenyan journalist Brian Obuya claimed that Arshad was “wanted” in Pakistan, writing:
“Arshad Sharif was a wanted man. Wanted by some ‘top officials’ in Pakistan.
“After running into exile in Dubai, Arshad would later travel to Kenya, sources saying he had been ‘traced there’ only to be ‘mistakenly’ killed in Kenya.”
He went on to say that Arshad’s body was found several kilometres away from where the police say the shooting happened.
In another tweet, Brian said the vehicle Arshad was in was shot at nine times.
He said: “Further details now show that Arshad Sharif’s motor vehicle was shot at nine times. Four of those bullets to the left side of the vehicle. One bullet deflated the right side tyre.”
His death has prompted many celebrities to pay tribute and express their condolences.
Fellow journalist Imran Riaz found out what had happened after speaking to Arshad’s family. He later tweeted:
“I need you bhai.”
Actress and model Mariyam Nafees Amaan posted an emotional tribute, writing:
“Unbelievable! Tragic seems like such a tiny word.
“You tried your best. Your efforts will not be forgotten.”
Mariyam went on to slam those who failed to stand by the journalist.
She wrote: “The ones who didn’t stand by him should be ashamed of themselves for the rest of their sad lives!
“You all are responsible for not protecting him from these monsters.”
Sajal Aly said: “RIP Arshad Sharif.”
Adnan Siddiqui wrote: “Arshad Sharif, a voice of reason in all the ‘breaking news’ clutter.
“Balanced, fair and objective – just how journalists are expected to be. Journalism lost a great one.”
Former cricketer Shahid Afridi joined other celebrities in paying tribute to Arshad Sharif, writing:
“My heart and duas go out to Arshad Sharif’s family. Tragic. No words.”
Arshad Sharif came from a military family.
Arshad’s father was Muhammad Sharif Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, a Naval Commander in the Pakistani military.
His brother tragically lost his life whilst in the line of duty.
With news of Arshad Sharif’s death causing shockwaves, influential figures in Pakistan have called for a thorough investigation into his death.
Actress and model Amar Khan united with other celebrities to express her sadness:
“A dark day in journalistic history.”
She added that there is something more to his death.
“Of course it’s not a mere coincidence and shall be strongly investigated.”
Arshad’s body is expected to return to Pakistan, with officials seeing off the cargo in Nairobi earlier on October 25, 2022.
Arshad Sharif’s relatives have commented said that his funeral will be held on October 27 in Islamabad.
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