Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq named head of Pakistan's largest seminary

Following the assassination of Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq, the vice chancellor of Pakistan's largest Islamic seminary, in a suicide bombing in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, his brother, Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq Haqqani, was appointed as the seminary’s new deputy administrator on Saturday.

The attack occurred at Darul Uloom Haqqania in Akora Khattak, Nowshera district, during Friday prayer congregation a day earlier. The announcement was made during Maulana Hamid’s funeral, where followers expressed their support for the decision by raising their hands in endorsement.

Maulana Rashid and Maulana Hamid are sons of the late Maulana Sami-ul-Haq, who founded Jamia Darul Uloom Haqqania, and was also known as the 'father of the Taliban,' for his role in shaping the militant movement’s ideology.

In addition, Maulana Abdul Haq was chosen as the political successor of his late father Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq.

Addressing the mourners, Maulana Rashid emphasized the sacrifices his family had made for the country’s survival. "My father, Maulana Sami-ul-Haq, and my brother, Maulana Hamid-ul-Haq, laid down their lives for this country," he said.

Moreover, Maulana Abdul Haq reaffirmed his commitment to their mission, stating that threats and attacks would not deter them.

"As long as even one member of the Haqqani family is alive, we will continue Maulana Sami-ul-Haq’s mission and remain steadfast on the path of truth," he declared.

Who is Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq?

According to his personal secretary, Babar Hanif, Maulana Rashid is the third among the Haqqani siblings and has been associated with Darul Uloom Haqqania for 35 years. He currently serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Mahana Al-Haq, the seminary’s monthly publication.

Maulana Rashid-ul-Haq with JUI-F chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman.Courtesy: Babar Hanif/Personal Secretary to Maulana Rashid

Hanif stated that Maulana Rashid previously worked as a lecturer and the seminary’s manager. While he has not played a direct role in politics, he has served as an advisor in political affairs, closely working alongside his late father and brother.