After a protracted illness, renowned religious scholar and political thinker Agha Murtaza Pooya passed away in Karachi on Friday.
For the past few weeks, he has been receiving treatment at a private hospital.
Mr. Pooya, a well-known figure in religious and political circles, was the head of the Institute of Strategic Studies and a federal minister. He was well-known for his depth of thought and his active involvement in public events, especially at pivotal points in Pakistan’s political history.
He also founded and published a well-known English-language journal, which he used to try to change the country’s conversation and encourage educated discussion on issues like foreign policy, religious harmony, and constitutional law.
Agha Murtaza was the senior vice president of the Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT), a group with which he was affiliated.
His affiliation with the PAT was a reflection of his strong interest in religious action and reformist politics.
Imambargah Sadiq G-9 in Islamabad will host his funeral rituals this Friday following Juma prayers. It is anticipated that members of civil society, religious intellectuals, and political elites will attend.
