Senior Pakistani politician Hafiz Hussain Ahmed passes away at 74

Senior Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) leader, Islamic scholar, and former Pakistani lawmaker Hafiz Hussain Ahmed passed away on Wednesday. He was 74.

According to family sources, he had been unwell for some time.

Born in 1951 in a religious family in Quetta, Hafiz Hussain Ahmed received early education in Quran, Hadith, Fiqh, and Arabic literature. He was affiliated with the Deobandi school of thought and held certifications in Dars-e-Nizami and Quran memorization.

According to a statement issued by JUI, Ahmed entered politics in 1973 in Balochistan and later became a prominent figure in JUI at the national level. He was elected to the National Assembly twice, serving from 1988 to 1990 and again from 2002 to 2007. He was also a member of the Senate from 1991 to 1994.

He played a key role in the Pakistan National Alliance and served as deputy parliamentary leader in the National Assembly.

JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed deep sorrow, calling Ahmed a "sharp-witted, articulate, and ideological leader."

"With his passing, a chapter of cherished memories has closed," Fazlur Rehman said. "From youth to old age, he remained dedicated to one cause on one platform."

He prayed for Ahmed’s forgiveness and elevation in the afterlife, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

"I extend my condolences to his family, associates, and JUI workers. May Allah grant them patience and keep Hafiz Sahib in our prayers," he added.