Former AJK President Raja Zulqarnain Khan Passes Away at 93

News Desk

ISLAMABAD: Raja Mohammad Zulqarnain Khan, the former president of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), passed away on Saturday at a hospital in Islamabad after a brief illness. He was 93 years old.

The AJK government has declared a day of official mourning on Sunday, during which the state flag will be flown at half-mast. His burial will take place with full state honors in his hometown of Kasguma, Bhimber district, following funeral prayers scheduled for 11 am.

Born on March 15, 1933, Raja Zulqarnain was the son of Khan Bahadur Raja Mohammad Afzal Khan, an ICS officer who served in the administration of Maharaja Hari Singh. He received his early education in Srinagar and Delhi before attending Lawrence College, Ghora Gali, at the age of 13, where he was contemporaries with notable figures such as former Prime Minister Zafarullah Jamali and former Balochistan Chief Minister Sardar Akbar Bugti. After graduating from Government College, Lahore, in 1955, he ventured into the construction business, founding United Builders in Karachi in 1958, which undertook projects across Pakistan, AJK, the UAE, and Iraq.

Raja Zulqarnain’s death marks the end of an era in AJK politics, reflecting on his contributions to the region’s development and governance. His passing is a significant loss for many who admired his leadership and vision. The official mourning period underscores the respect he garnered throughout his life and career.

In the coming days, tributes are expected from various political leaders and organizations, highlighting his impact on AJK’s political landscape. The government is likely to release further statements commemorating his legacy and contributions to the region.