Azad Kashmir President Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry dies at 71

Azad Kashmir President Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry dies at 71
President of Pakistan-administered Kashmir Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, speaks with Reuters during an interview in Islamabad, Pakistan 30 April, 2025
Reuters

Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, president of Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir, has died at the age of 71 following a prolonged illness, political parties and state media reported on Friday.

According to Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper, Chaudhry passed away in the capital Islamabad after battling a long-term illness. His death was confirmed in a statement by the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), with which he was closely associated.

Chaudhry had a long political career in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He served as prime minister of the region in 1996 and was elected president in 2021. Over the years, he was also elected nine times as a member of the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly.

Pakistan’s state broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over Chaudhry’s death, describing him as a “wise and dedicated politician” who served the people of Azad Kashmir with commitment.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani also issued condolences, paying tribute to Chaudhry’s political legacy and his role in highlighting the Kashmir issue at national and international levels.

Funeral arrangements are expected to take place in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, with further details to be announced by local authorities.

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