RAWALPINDI (MNN); President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry has passed away at the age of 71, the Pakistan Peoples Partyās media office confirmed on Saturday.
According to the statement, Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry died in Islamabad after a prolonged illness. His funeral prayers will be offered on Sunday at 3:00 pm in his native village Chichiyan in Mirpur.
The statement noted that Chaudhry was elected as the prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in 1996 and later assumed the office of AJK president in 2021. He was also elected nine times as a member of the AJK Legislative Assembly from Mirpur.
His demise comes just days ahead of Kashmir Solidarity Day, observed annually on February 5 to reaffirm Pakistanās unwavering support for the Kashmiri peopleās struggle for self-determination.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over Chaudhryās passing, describing him as a wise and committed leader who devoted his entire political life to serving the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. According to Radio Pakistan, the premier said Chaudhryās services for the Kashmir cause would always be remembered.
President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed grief over the demise, praying for forgiveness and a high place in heaven for the departed leader. In a statement, the Presidency said President Zardari extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and termed Chaudhryās national and political services invaluable.
Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani expressed condolences, describing Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry as a dignified and principled politician. He said Chaudhry played a significant role in highlighting the Kashmir issue at international forums and that his political struggle would continue to inspire future generations.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq also expressed grief, paying tribute to Chaudhryās distinguished political and social services. In a statement issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, he acknowledged Chaudhryās vital contributions towards effectively projecting the Kashmir cause at international platforms and said his efforts for the legitimate rights of the Kashmiri people would always be remembered.
