Former Punjab governor Mian Muhammad Azhar passes away in Lahore

Lahore (Web Desk): Mian Muhammad Azhar, a prominent figure in Pakistani politics and former governor of Punjab, passed away on Tuesday, as confirmed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

The party shared the news via a post on X (formerly Twitter), offering condolences to his son, Hammad Azhar, who is also a senior member of the PTI.

Azhar held the office of Punjab governor from August 11, 1990, until April 10, 1993. Over the years, he carved a notable space for himself in national politics, initially as a founding leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), and later by aligning himself with PTI in 2011.

In the 2024 general elections, he contested the National Assembly seat from NA-129 (Lahore-XIII) with PTI’s endorsement and subsequently affiliated with the Sunni Ittehad Council.

Earlier in January 2024, amid widespread demonstrations led by PTI supporters in response to party founder Imran Khan’s call, Azhar was briefly taken into police custody in Lahore but was released shortly thereafter.

Tributes poured in following his death.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has conveyed his heartfelt condolences on the passing of Mian Muhammad Azhar, the former governor of Punjab and Member of the National Assembly.

In his condolence message, the prime minister expressed deep sorrow over the loss and prayed for the departed soul to find eternal peace. He also extended his prayers for the bereaved family, wishing them strength and patience in this difficult time.

Recognizing Mian Muhammad Azhar's contributions to public service, the Prime Minister noted that his passing marks a significant loss and offered his support to the family as they mourn this great personal and national tragedy.

Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan described Azhar as a man of integrity, whose contributions to public life and the political sphere would remain significant.

Former Sindh governor and ex-PTI leader Imran Ismail also expressed sorrow over the loss, calling him a respected and influential personality in the country’s political history.