By: Altaf Abro .
GOLARCHI, a town located in the Sindh province,- 37 years ago today, Sindh mourned the loss of Shaheed Fazi Rahu, a highly esteemed peasant leader and senior vice president of the Awami National Party (ANP). He was fatally murdered in the village of Golarchi, District Badin, Sindh, which had a lasting impact on the political environment of the province. Shaheed Fazi Rahu’s life exemplified his resolute dedication to championing the rights of peasants and advocating for democracy in the province of Sindh. He possessed not only political leadership but also activism, driven by a goal to establish a society characterized by greater fairness.
Shaheed Fazil Rahu, born in 1934 in Rahuki, a tranquil town located in District Badin, would later emerge as a prominent figure of defiance and a fervent advocate for democracy in Pakistan. Fazil Rahu, the son of a prominent landowner named Ahmed Khan Rahu, embarked on a remarkable journey characterized by his steadfast dedication to his beliefs and his relentless quest of fairness and righteousness. Fazil Rahu’s engagement in political action commenced fervently during the turbulent era of General Ayoob Khan’s government, marked by the imposition of the notorious “One Unit” policy on the nation. During a period characterized by the potential dangers of expressing disagreement, Fazil Rahu exhibited unwavering bravery by actively opposing this policy, so showcasing his unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and regional self-governance. Fazil Rahu’s unwavering commitment to democracy surpassed the limitations imposed by political divisions. He showed unshakable trust in democratic representation by supporting Fatima Jinnah, often known as Madar-e-Millat (Mother of the Nation), in her campaign for the presidency against General Ayoob Khan. In addition, Fazil Rahu played a pivotal role as one of the founding members of the Awami Tehreek, a political movement that dedicated significant efforts towards the objective of publishing voter lists in the Sindhi language. This effort played a crucial role in guaranteeing openness and ease of access in the electoral process in Sindh.
Fazi Rahu, born in 1934 into a modest family in Sindh, gained recognition for his relentless endeavors in advocating for the rights of farmers and disadvantaged individuals. He was renowned for his charm, unwavering commitment, and the capacity to mobilize people in support of his mission. Nevertheless, his journey towards activism was not devoid of obstacles. Fazi Rahu encountered a multitude of hazards and perils as a result of his political stance. During his time in detention at Landhi Prison in Karachi, he experienced a distressing episode in which someone tried to kill him by poisoning. Undeterred by the imminent peril, Fazi Rahu steadfastly adhered to his political principles and persistently advocated for the rights of the marginalized. Undeterred in his determination to oppose tyranny, Fazil Rahu’s vocal opposition gained strength as Pakistan underwent successive military governments. He became a major role in the fight against General Yahya Khan’s regime, calling for the reinstatement of democratic administration and the rights of the people.
Fazil Rahu’s activism reached its highest point during General Zia-ul-Haq’s repressive dictatorship. He emerged as a symbol of optimism for people who desired a restoration of democratic administration and adherence to legal principles. Fazil Rahu played a crucial role in coordinating large-scale political gatherings as part of the Movement for Restoration of Democracy (MRD) to oppose General Zia’s autocratic rule. These rallies demonstrated his capacity to rally individuals in the midst of hardship. Fazil Rahu’s election as Vice President of the Awami National Party (ANP), a combination of five political parties in Pakistan, serves as evidence of his dedication to democratic principles. The ANP launched a collective campaign against the oppressive rule of General Zia’s dictatorship, with Fazil Rahu playing a crucial role in leading this endeavor. Fazi Rahu’s unwavering commitment to his cause resulted in his repeated imprisonment, although with each instance, he emerged with increased fortitude and determination to effect transformative change. He strongly advocated for the marginalized population of Sindh, specifically the agricultural laborers who faced difficulties in obtaining their rights and a just portion of the land they cultivated.
Fazi Rahu was actively engaged in the Movement for Restoration of Democracy (MRD) in Sindh at the time of his untimely assassination on January 17, 1987. His prominent role and impact within the MRD established him as a key player in the fight against authoritarianism and the promotion of democratic principles in the region. The prevailing belief is that Fazi Rahu’s assassination was driven by political motives, however it was also influenced by personal animosity. The demise of the individual dealt a significant setback to the MRD cause and the wider democratic movement in Sindh. The absence of him created an emptiness that has never been entirely occupied.
Shehnaz Rahu, the daughter of Fazil Rahu, carried on her father’s work by becoming the inaugural president of the Sindhiani Tehreek, a feminist platform operating within the Awami Tehrik. The Rahu family’s credo encompassed a strong dedication to social justice and equal rights. Regrettably, Fazil Rahu’s life was prematurely ended through assassination in 1987 while he was at the forefront of the MRD movement against General Zia’s autocratic rule. The assassination was largely perceived as a plot to suppress the influential political presence of Sindh and Pakistan.
Today, we commemorate Shaheed Fazil Rahu and pay tribute to his steadfast commitment to democracy, justice, and the rights of individuals. His life serves as a tribute to the unwavering determination of individuals who resist injustice and dictatorship, creating a lasting impact that continues to motivate activists and advocates for democracy in Pakistan. The memory of Fazi Rahu endures posthumously, serving as a source of inspiration for activists and politicians who persistently advocate for the rights of peasants and the impoverished in Sindh. His steadfast commitment to his ideas and his courageous pursuit of justice remain an inspiration for all who aspire to a fairer and more democratic society. On this tragic date, we commemorate and pay tribute to the life and selflessness of Shaheed Fazi Rahu, an individual who devoted his life to the improvement of Sindh and its inhabitants. We are driven by his memory to strive for the actualization of his vision for a fairer and more comprehensive society.
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