Kamaluddin Azfar, a distinguished Pakistani politician, lawyer, and intellectual, passed away on May 26, 2025, in Karachi at the age of 95 after a prolonged illness. His demise marks the end of an era for the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the nation’s political landscape.

🏛️ A Life Dedicated to Public Service

Azfar’s political journey was deeply intertwined with the PPP, where he served in various capacities:

• Sindh Finance Minister: Overseeing the province’s financial matters.Federal Minister for Local Government and Rural Development: Focusing on grassroots governance.

• Senator: Representing the PPP in the upper house of Parliament.

• Governor of Sindh (1995–1997): Appointed by then-Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, he relinquished his Senate seat to assume this role.

Known as the “son of Karachi,” Azfar was instrumental in initiating housing projects for low-income communities, notably in the city’s Lines Area.

📚 An Intellectual and Author

Beyond politics, Azfar was a respected lawyer and scholar. Educated at Government College, Lahore, and Balliol College, Oxford, he was called to the Bar at Inner Temple, London. His legal acumen and understanding of constitutional matters were widely acknowledged. nal challenges, including:

• Pakistan: Political and Constitutional Dilemmas (1987)

• Asian Drama Revisited (1992)

• Pakistan Under the Military (1991)

• Good Governance (1994)

• Discovery of Pakistan (2005)

• Waters of Lahore (2014)

His writings remain essential for understanding South Asian political systems and governance issues.

🕊️ Tributes and Legacy

Leaders across the political spectrum have paid tribute to Azfar’s contributions:

• President Asif Ali Zardari: Expressed deep sorrow, stating that Azfar was an asset to the PPP and contributed greatly to Sindh and Pakistan.

• Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah: Described him as a “wise politician” whose services will be remembered.

• PPP Senator Sherry Rehman: Highlighted his role in shaping local government policies and his longstanding association with Benazir Bhutto.

Azfar is survived by his wife, a son, and a daughter. His funeral arrangements are pending the arrival of his children from abroad.

Kamal Azfar’s legacy as a statesman, scholar, and public servant will continue to inspire future generations committed to Pakistan’s progress and democratic ideals.