Senior journalist Talat Aslam passes away

Senior journalist and political analyst, Talat Aslam passed away on Wednesday at the age of 67.

Aslam was a veteran journalist with a career spanning many publications, including Herald and The News.

He remained a dedicated advocate of human rights. Even in his final tweets Aslam did not shy away form sharing his bold opinions on Twitter, where he was known for his witty takes on social issues and enjoyed a considerable following.

Following the news of his sudden demise, condolences poured in on social media, particularly from journalists, politicians and activists.

Federal Minister for Climate Change Senator Sherry Rehman shared a heartfelt tweet saying that they had met "at the Herald, where he was the anchor even though I [Sherry Rehman] was his boss. But he made us all his family, right to the end, wherever we were in life".

Senior anchorperson Hamid Mir also offered his condolences to Aslam's grieving family and friends.

Journalist Munizae Jahangir recalled him as a “sophisticated gentle soul who had a sound knowledge of Pakistan's history”.

Murtaza Solangi said Aslam brought “intellect, integrity, courage, solidarity, wit, smiles and laughter in our lives”.

Senior journalist Abbas Nasir also bid adieu to his friend and colleague.

Hasan Zaidi remembered Aslam as his closest friend and mentor. “I learnt most about journalism from him,” he said.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also expressed "deep sadness" over the veteran journalists demise.