Veteran Politician and Writer Dies in Islamabad
Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a senior leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and a respected columnist, passed away in Islamabad after a long illness. According to family sources, he had been receiving treatment at a private hospital in the capital for the past two weeks. Earlier reports had confirmed that Senator Irfan Siddiqui was admitted to the ICU amid a severe illness, as detailed in this NewsAlert update. He died on Monday morning, surrounded by family members.
Siddiqui, aged 76, had been battling health complications for several months, although details of his illness were not publicly disclosed. His funeral arrangements are expected to be announced later by his family.
Prominent Role in Parliament
At the time of his death, Irfan Siddiqui was serving as the parliamentary leader of the PML-N in the Senate of Pakistan. Elected to the upper house in March 2021, he also chaired the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, where he played a key role in policy discussions and diplomatic oversight.
Siddiqui was widely recognized for his eloquent speeches and his efforts to promote constructive dialogue in Parliament. He was also considered one of the most trusted advisers to former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, having served as his Special Assistant on National Affairs during Sharif’s previous term.
Tributes from Political and Media Circles
News of Siddiqui’s passing prompted an outpouring of grief from political, journalistic, and literary communities across Pakistan. Leaders from various parties expressed deep sorrow, praising his decades-long contribution to politics, journalism, and education.
Media colleagues remembered him as a thoughtful columnist and mentor to young journalists. He was a voice of moderation and intellect in turbulent political times, one senior journalist noted.
Background and Legacy
Before entering politics, Irfan Siddiqui had a distinguished career as an educationist and writer. He served as a school principal, wrote extensively for Urdu newspapers, and was known for his columns on national affairs.
His death marks the end of an era for many who saw him as a bridge between Pakistan’s political and intellectual spheres.
