Pakistan Observes National Mourning for Aga Khan IV
Pakistan has declared Saturday, February 8, as a National Day of Mourning to honor the passing of His Highness Shah Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslim community and a globally respected philanthropist. The decision was formally announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who also conveyed his condolences to the late Aga Khan’s son and successor, Shah Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V.
A notification issued by the Cabinet Division stated that the national flag would fly at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect for Aga Khan IV, who passed away on February 4 in Lisbon at the age of 88. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has been designated to represent Pakistan at the funeral ceremony, which is scheduled to take place at the Ismaili Centre in Lisbon at 11:00 AM on February 8, with a private burial to follow in Aswan, Egypt, on February 9.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the late Aga Khan, describing him as a true friend of Pakistan who illuminated many lives with his visionary leadership. In a statement on social media, he acknowledged Aga Khan IV’s contributions to global development, education, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts, emphasizing that his legacy would always be remembered.
Aga Khan IV had a long-standing connection with Pakistan, dating back to his first visit in 1960. Recognizing the need for development, he played a key role in launching initiatives in education, healthcare, rural development, and cultural preservation. Under his leadership, the Aga Khan Development Network established transformative projects in Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, Sindh, and other regions, significantly improving the quality of life for many communities. One of the most significant contributions was the establishment of the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme in 1982, which focused on poverty alleviation, community development, and environmental sustainability.
His initiatives helped improve agricultural production, empower local communities through small-business support and women’s organizations, enhance access to quality education, and expand healthcare services across Pakistan. The preservation of historic sites, including Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Shigar Fort, and Khaplu Palace, was also a notable aspect of his work, ensuring that cultural heritage remained an integral part of development efforts. His holistic approach combined economic growth with social progress and environmental protection, earning him global recognition and numerous international honors.
One of Aga Khan IV’s most significant contributions to Pakistan’s healthcare sector was the establishment of the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) and the Aga Khan Medical University in Karachi. The hospital is widely regarded as the leading medical institution in Pakistan and among the top healthcare providers in the region. AKUH was the first hospital in Pakistan to be accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a globally recognized standard for healthcare excellence, and is ranked among the top 100 academic medical centers in the world. It offers world-class healthcare services, advanced diagnostics, and a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, ensuring that people receive treatment based on the latest medical research and technology.
With multiple specialty services under one roof, the hospital provides expert care from internationally trained doctors, surgeons, and healthcare professionals. AKUH’s clinical laboratories are accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP), further ensuring high-quality medical testing and diagnostic services across Pakistan. The hospital has a strong commitment to social responsibility, offering patient welfare and zakat programs to support those in financial need. Its presence extends beyond Karachi, with accredited laboratories and medical facilities in major cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Multan, Hyderabad, and Sukkur, serving thousands of patients daily.
AKUH has also received international recognition for its innovative approach to healthcare management. In 2017, it was awarded the Gold Award for Innovation in Hospital Management at the Asian Hospital Management Awards for its project aimed at improving patient discharge processes. This initiative enhanced hospital efficiency and ensured better access to care for incoming patients.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, where Aga Khan IV’s initiatives had a profound impact, leaders expressed deep gratitude for his efforts. Chief Minister Gulbar Khan acknowledged his commitment to the socio-economic development of the region, stating that Gilgit-Baltistan remains indebted to his dedication to reducing poverty and promoting sustainable livelihoods. Other political and religious figures highlighted his advocacy for religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and inclusive progress. Many credited him with transforming agriculture, introducing high-quality crop production, developing irrigation infrastructure, and expanding skill development programs that improved employment opportunities for youth and women.
Following the passing of Aga Khan IV, the leadership of the Ismaili Muslim community has now transitioned to his eldest son, Shah Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V. Born to Begum Salimah Aga Khan, formerly Sarah Croker Poole, Aga Khan V has been actively involved in the governance of the Aga Khan Development Network and has played a key role in leading environmental and climate action initiatives. He has prioritized projects focused on climate resilience, sustainable development, and poverty alleviation, continuing the long-standing mission of the network to support vulnerable communities.
The new Aga Khan lives with his wife, Kendra Spears, and their two children. His appointment follows the centuries-old tradition of the Ismaili Imamat based on Nass, ensuring continuity in the spiritual and social guidance of the community.
As Pakistan observes a national day of mourning, flags fly at half-mast across the country, marking the profound impact of Aga Khan IV’s contributions to Pakistan and beyond. While the nation grieves his loss, his legacy of service in development, education, and humanitarian work continues under the leadership of Aga Khan V. The Ismaili community and the Aga Khan Development Network are expected to build upon his vision, striving for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
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