On Sunday, the 4th of Ramazan 2026, the historic and symbolically significant lawns of Governor House Karachi became the setting for an extraordinary gathering that brought together key pillars of society – media leadership, constitutional authority, civil society and public welfare stakeholders – under one unified platform. The occasion marked far more than a customary Iftar. It represented a visible convergence of institutions and communities in an atmosphere defined by accessibility, inclusivity and organised service.
According to the vision of Governor Sindh, The event was thoughtfully arranged by Governor,s team headed by Faisal Farooqui, Secretary to the Governor Sindh, Kamran khan Tesoori hosted an exclusive Iftar dinner in honour of the senior members of the Karachi Editors Club. The delegation was led by its President Mubasher Mir to witness firsthand the Daily Awami Iftar Dinner being conducted under the now firmly established banner of the “Umeed-e-Ramazan” campaign. The presence of the Governor alongside senior journalists symbolised a strong and constructive engagement between public office and the media community.
The Karachi Editors Club delegation included Manzar Naqvi, Secretary General KEC, along with other distinguished senior members including Iqbal Jamil, Mukhtar Ahmed Butt, Javed Malik, Agha Shirazi, Dr. Zaigham Abbas, Ahmed Malik, Akhtar Shaheen Rind, Naeemuddin, Naeem Tahir, Tazmeen Javed, Dr. Syed Mahboob, Bilal Tahir, Humair Anwer, Rashid Khan and Abida Agha. Their collective presence underscored the significance attributed by the media fraternity to the Governor House initiative, recognising both its expanding scale and its continuity over the past four years.
Beyond the media delegation, the gathering also drew participation from parliamentarians, educationists, representatives of the business community and prominent members of civil society. This diverse attendance reflected broad based institutional interest in the evolving character of the Governor House during Ramazan and highlighted the campaign’s growing relevance within the social and civic landscape of Sindh.
Importantly, the evening was not confined to ceremonial protocol or symbolic hospitality. It stood as a comprehensive and carefully structured demonstration of how a constitutional office can harmoniously integrate public accessibility, organised welfare outreach, youth empowerment initiatives and meaningful institutional transformation within a sustained and transparent framework. Now entering its fourth consecutive year, the Ramazan initiative at Governor House has progressed beyond a traditional Iftar arrangement and matured into a recognisable civic platform – one that combines immediate humanitarian relief with long term social development objectives, thereby redefining the relationship between public institutions and the citizens they serve.
A Symbol of Transformation and Public Accessibility
Governor House Karachi has long been regarded as a symbol of constitutional authority, official formality and structured state protocol. For decades, it embodied administrative distance and institutional exclusivity, often perceived by the public as a space defined by hierarchy and restricted access. However, this long standing perception began to undergo a clear and deliberate transformation after Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori assumed office as Governor Sindh in 2022.
Over the past four years, particularly during the holy month of Ramazan, Governor House has gradually reshaped its identity from a protocol centric institution into an open and participatory civic space. By the 4th of Ramazan this year, that transformation was visibly evident. As guests arrived, the expansive lawns were already filled with families representing a wide spectrum of socio economic backgrounds. Labourers sat alongside small business owners. Students shared space with elderly citizens. Children played freely as they awaited the call to prayer.
There were no exclusive entry passes, no restricted guest lists and no segregated enclosures based on rank or social standing. The defining feature of the Daily Awami Iftar has consistently been its open door character, where participation is not determined by status but by simple willingness to attend.
This shift from exclusivity to inclusivity has become one of the most widely acknowledged aspects of the “Umeed-e-Ramazan” campaign. It represents far more than physical openness of gates. It reflects a philosophical repositioning of the institution itself. Governor House has redefined its public image as accessible, responsive and directly engaged with the citizens it represents, demonstrating that constitutional authority and public approachability can coexist “Umeed-e-Ramazan”: From Annual Iftar to a Comprehensive Welfare Framework
Entering its fourth consecutive year in 2026, the “Umeed-e-Ramazan” campaign has progressed far beyond its original identity as a large scale public Iftar arrangement. What began as an initiative to host thousands for daily Iftar has gradually developed into a structured, multi dimensional welfare framework operating with defined objectives and sustained continuity.
At the heart of this campaign remains the Daily Awami Iftar, where thousands of citizens gather each evening without formal invitations, registration barriers or selective criteria. The simplicity of open participation continues to be its foundational principle. Yet, the scope of the initiative now extends well beyond the act of providing a meal at sunset.
Over time, the campaign has systematically expanded to include several interconnected components:
= Organised ration distribution drives aimed at supporting deserving and underprivileged families
= Free information technology training programmes designed to equip youth with employable digital skills
= Social assistance platforms such as the “Umeed Bell” helpline to respond to urgent community needs
= Medical and community support interventions addressing immediate welfare concerns
= Transparent daily lucky draws offering meaningful rewards capable of positively transforming individual lives
This layered and coordinated structure reflects a clear understanding that sustainable social impact cannot rely solely on charitable distribution. It requires empowerment oriented planning. While daily Iftar and ration distribution address immediate hardship, IT education and skill development create long term pathways to economic stability. Community engagement, meanwhile, strengthens social cohesion and collective responsibility.
The consistent and systematic organisation of these activities over four consecutive years has enhanced public confidence in the initiative. As highlighted by several speakers during the event, continuity is the element that elevates a welfare programme from a seasonal effort to an enduring legacy.
Daily Lucky Draw: A Blend of Hope, Fairness and Life-Changing Opportunity
Following the conclusion of the Iftar, attention shifted to one of the most anticipated segments of the evening – the daily lucky draw, conducted openly before the gathered attendees and invited guests. The transparent manner in which the process was carried out reinforced the credibility of the initiative and strengthened public confidence in its fairness.
Among the prizes awarded were Free Umrah Tickets, Residential Plots and Sewing Machines – each representing not merely a material gift but a meaningful opportunity capable of reshaping individual circumstances.
A residential plot, in particular, holds profound significance in an urban environment where secure and affordable housing remains a persistent challenge. For many families, ownership of a plot represents long term stability, dignity and a foundation upon which future generations can build. Such an award does not simply provide land; it offers security and hope for a more stable tomorrow.
The distribution of sewing machines carries equally powerful implications. At the grassroots level, a sewing machine can become a tool of economic empowerment. It enables home based income generation, allowing recipients – particularly women – to contribute financially to their households with independence and self respect. In this sense, the gift represents sustainable livelihood rather than short term assistance.
The Umrah ticket, meanwhile, fulfils a deeply cherished spiritual aspiration for many families. For those who may not otherwise possess the financial means to undertake such a sacred journey, receiving this opportunity is both emotionally and spiritually transformative. It connects the welfare initiative with faith, reflection and personal fulfilment.
In addition to these major awards, children attending the Iftar were presented with cash Eidee envelopes. The sight of young faces lighting up with joy as they received Eidee directly from the Governor added a heartfelt and human dimension to the proceedings. It underscored that governance, when rooted in compassion, can resonate deeply at the most personal level.
Members of the Karachi Editors Club also noted the spontaneous enthusiasm among the attendees. Several individuals were seen carrying photographs of Governor Tessori, while others had created pencil sketches as tokens of appreciation. These expressions appeared natural and voluntary, reflecting genuine public engagement rather than staged symbolism.
Address by Dr. Farooq Sattar
Dr. Muhammad Farooq Sattar, Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan and Deputy Convener of MQM Pakistan, delivered one of the most comprehensive and thought provoking addresses of the evening. His remarks situated the Governor House initiatives within the wider socio economic and political realities of Pakistan, offering both appreciation and strategic insight.
He began by reflecting on the transformation of public institutions and the evolving relationship between the state and its citizens.
“For decades,” he observed, “public institutions were viewed through the lens of distance, hierarchy and inherited protocol. What we are witnessing here is not merely an event but a redefinition of governance. When a constitutional office opens its doors to ordinary citizens, it strengthens democratic culture and rebuilds confidence in public authority.”
Dr. Sattar stressed that while symbolic openness is meaningful, it must be accompanied by structured and sustainable empowerment.
“We are living in a digital century,” he stated. “Information technology is not a luxury or an optional skill. It is essential. Nations that invest in digital literacy are nations that invest in their future competitiveness.”
He elaborated that Pakistan’s demographic strength lies in its youthful population, yet without adequate skills that demographic advantage can turn into an economic burden.
“Our youth represent our greatest asset,” he said. “But if they are not equipped with modern skills such as coding, software development, data analytics and digital marketing, we fail to unlock their potential. Digital skills remove geographical limitations. A young person sitting in Karachi can compete in global markets.”
Addressing the economic challenges facing the country, Dr. Sattar emphasised that unemployment and inflation require structural and forward looking solutions.
“Arranging Iftar fulfils a moral responsibility. Distributing ration addresses immediate hardship. These are necessary. But teaching a young person a skill that allows dignified earning addresses structural inequality. The true strength of this initiative lies in combining relief with empowerment.”
He also praised the continuity of the “Umeed-e-Ramazan” campaign.
“Consistency builds trust. When citizens witness sustained action rather than temporary gestures, confidence in institutions increases. Four consecutive years demonstrate seriousness, commitment and long term vision.”
Concluding his address, Dr. Sattar encouraged other public institutions to adopt similar models of inclusive governance.
“We need a governance approach that blends transparency, inclusivity and youth centred development. If such models are replicated across the country, we can gradually strengthen democratic culture and socio economic stability.”
His remarks were received with appreciation, reinforcing the broader narrative of combining compassion with capacity building under the Governor House initiative.
Mubasher Mir: A Historic Institutional Shift
President of the Karachi Editors Club, Mubasher Mir, in his address warmly commended Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori for what he termed a “remarkable and historic transformation” of the Governor House into a truly public oriented institution. He specifically highlighted the fourth consecutive year of the “Umeed-e-Ramazan” campaign, describing its continuity as clear evidence of sustained and structured social outreach rather than a one time seasonal initiative.
Mir observed that over the past four years the programme has expanded significantly in both scale and scope, evolving into a large scale welfare framework that benefits thousands of citizens across Karachi during the holy month. According to him, what began as a public Iftar arrangement has matured into a comprehensive support system addressing multiple layers of social need.
He noted that under the banner of “Umeed-e-Ramazan” the Governor House has organised daily Iftar for large gatherings, ration distribution for deserving families, free information technology courses aimed at empowering youth with employable skills, and medical and social assistance initiatives such as the “Umeed Bell” platform.
“This is not merely a Ramazan drive,” Mir stated. “It is a structured social support programme that addresses hunger, education and community harmony in a coordinated manner.”
He further remarked that opening the Governor House to the general public represents both a symbolic and practical departure from what he described as a historically entrenched colonial style protocol traditionally associated with the office.
“For decades,” he said, “Governor House was viewed as a closed and distant symbol of authority inherited from the colonial era. Governor Tessori has opened its doors to ordinary citizens, transforming it into an accessible and people friendly institution.”
Mir added that the initiative has contributed to strengthening interfaith and inter community harmony, as individuals from diverse backgrounds participate together in the Iftar gatherings and associated welfare activities.
“The spirit of inclusivity and public engagement is clearly visible,” he observed. “It reflects a transition from ceremonial governance to genuine community service.”
His remarks underscored the broader theme of the evening – that constitutional authority and public accessibility can coexist within a framework grounded in transparency, continuity and service.
Address by Dr. Seema Mughal, Chancellor Greenwich University
Dr. Seema Mughal Chancellor Greenwich University structured her address around two central themes: institutional credibility and educational empowerment. Speaking to a diverse audience of media representatives, policymakers and civil society members, she emphasised that in the contemporary era, public institutions must continuously earn the trust of the communities they serve.
“In today’s world,” she observed, “public trust cannot be taken for granted. It is delicate and must be nurtured. Institutions derive legitimacy not merely from constitutional authority, but from accessibility, responsiveness and visible service.”
Dr. Mughal commended the open door character of the Daily Awami Iftar, describing it as a meaningful restoration of civic engagement between state institutions and citizens.
“When an institution that was once viewed as distant becomes accessible to ordinary families, it strengthens the bond between governance and society. This is how trust is rebuilt.”
As an academic leader, she placed particular emphasis on the importance of digital education within the broader framework of the initiative.
“As an educationist, I firmly believe that digital literacy is no longer optional. It is foundational for national development. The integration of free IT training programmes within this initiative is not just supportive – it is transformative.”
She explained that while ration distribution addresses urgent and immediate hardship, skill development addresses deeper, intergenerational challenges.
“Providing ration fulfils immediate necessity. Providing skills breaks cycles of poverty. When you equip youth with employable competencies, you change not just one life but the trajectory of entire families.”
Dr. Mughal also highlighted the importance of continuity in institutional initiatives.
“Four consecutive years of daily public Iftar should not be seen as repetition. It represents institutional consistency. And consistency builds credibility.”
Her remarks reinforced the idea that sustainable public welfare must be anchored in both compassion and capacity building, combining immediate relief with long term empowerment.
Address by Rehan Hanif, President Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Rehan Hanif, President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, presented his remarks from a distinctly economic and developmental perspective. Addressing the gathering, he underscored the intrinsic link between social welfare initiatives and long term economic sustainability.
“No economy can truly prosper if opportunity remains confined to a limited segment of society,” he observed. “Welfare and development are not opposing concepts. They are complementary forces that must move together.”
Hanif stressed that empowering youth with digital skills is critical for strengthening economic resilience in an increasingly competitive global environment. He noted that entrepreneurship, innovation and self employment opportunities are closely tied to technological literacy.
“Karachi’s most valuable resource is not merely its infrastructure or markets,” he stated. “It is its human capital. If that human capital is equipped with training in information technology and emerging digital fields, the city’s economic future becomes stronger and more sustainable.”
He further pointed out that initiatives such as free IT training under the Ramazan campaign can create a generation capable of contributing to startups, freelancing markets and technology driven enterprises.
In addition, Hanif commended the transparent manner in which the daily lucky draw was conducted. He remarked that fairness and openness in such processes play a significant role in reinforcing public confidence.
“Transparency builds trust,” he said. “When citizens witness fairness in distribution and process, institutional credibility is strengthened.”
His remarks reinforced the broader theme that structured welfare, when aligned with skill development and transparency, can serve as a catalyst for both social stability and economic growth.
Governor Tessori’s Vision
In his address, Muhammad Kamran Khan Tessori reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to serving every segment of society across Sindh without distinction. He emphasised that public office must reflect public ownership in both spirit and practice.
“The Governor House is not a closed institution,” he stated. “It belongs to the people of Sindh and must always remain open and accessible to them.”
Governor Tessori outlined a broad framework of priorities that extend well beyond ceremonial responsibilities. He highlighted housing security, quality education, employment opportunities, reliable electricity and gas supply, access to clean water and improved infrastructure as essential pillars of public welfare.
He stressed that governance must move beyond symbolic engagements and focus on meaningful empowerment.
“Our responsibility does not end with formal protocol,” he said. “It includes creating opportunities, strengthening communities and ensuring that every citizen feels supported and valued.”
Through these remarks, he positioned the Ramazan initiatives not as isolated events but as part of a larger, sustained vision of inclusive and development oriented governance.
Institutional Transformation and Inclusive Governance
The Ramazan initiatives at Governor House Karachi have significantly reshaped public perception of the institution. Opening its gates daily to thousands of citizens reflects not only effective organisation but a clear philosophical commitment to accessibility and civic engagement. Four consecutive years of uninterrupted arrangements demonstrate stability and consistency, allowing what began as a welfare effort to evolve into a recognised civic feature of Karachi’s Ramazan calendar.
While some observers stress the importance of pairing ceremonial outreach with structural reform, such scrutiny strengthens democratic accountability. At the same time, visible openness often creates space for dialogue, transparency and broader institutional trust.
The 4th Ramazan gathering under the “Umeed-e-Ramazan” campaign stood as a practical illustration of participatory governance. Through sustained continuity, transparent welfare distribution, a strong focus on IT education and inclusive public access, the initiative has redefined the role and image of Governor House.
The addresses by Dr. Muhammad Farooq Sattar, Mubasher Mir, Dr. Seema Mughal and Rehan Hanif collectively highlighted the need to combine compassion with competence and continuity. If sustained with accountability and measurable outcomes, this evolving model may continue to strengthen social cohesion, youth empowerment and public confidence across Sindh in the years ahead.
