By Rafiq Vayani
KARACHI: The Eyewitness, Standing in the Shadows of Pakistan’s History by Mohammad Saeed Mehdi Karachi, 10 January 2026. Ameena Saiyid of Lightstone Publishers announces the publication of Mohammed Saeed Mehdi’s The Eyewitness. Standing in the Shadows of Pakistan’s Histor, published by Lightstone Publishers.
Muhammad Saeed Mehdi’s memoir offers a gripping insider’s account of Pakistan’s tumultuous history, recounting pivotal moments that shaped the nation. As a civil servant at the heart of power, Mehdi witnessed firsthand the drama of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s trial and execution, General Zia-ul-Haq’s sudden death and the struggles between democracy and military rule. His story humanises major events, revealing the personal side of history: the euphoria of Benazir Bhutto’s return, the anguish of imprisonment and the quiet resilience in dark times.
Mehdi’s narrative is marked by humility, introspection and a deep affection for Pakistan. He shares not only the events he witnessed but also the moral dilemmas he faced, offering a nuanced exploration of duty, justice and the complexities of leadership. The Eyewitness is a compelling blend of history, politics and personal courage, inviting readers to reflect on Pakistan’s past and its ongoing quest for identity.
Muhammad Saeed Mehdi spoke in detail about the contents of this book, his reasons for and the journey of writing it. The Eyewitness is available in bookstores nationwide.
