KARACHI:
Liaquat Ali Khan, Pakistan’s first Prime Minister, holds a significant place in the country’s history. Appointed by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah himself, Liaquat Ali Khan’s contributions were fundamental to the establishment of Pakistan, yet his legacy remains underappreciated today.
Born in Karnal, undivided Punjab, in 1895, Liaquat Ali Khan embarked on his political career in 1926, becoming a strong advocate for Muslims’ rights in India. His unwavering support for Jinnah during crucial moments of the Pakistan Movement, including the Round Table Conferences in London and the Cabinet Mission Plan, cemented his position as one of Jinnah’s closest allies. Upon the establishment of Pakistan, he took on the immense responsibility of leading a newly-formed nation facing numerous challenges. Despite these accomplishments, Pakistan has largely neglected his memory. He was assassinated on October 16, 1951, under suspicious circumstances, with his killer, Said Akbar, shot dead almost immediately, leaving behind many unanswered questions. His personal sacrifices, including donating his properties in India to the Government of Pakistan, further encapsulate his selflessness. Yet, the lack of significant recognition — such as the absence of major roads or landmarks named in his honour — shows the country’s failure to adequately acknowledge his contributions.
To honour his legacy, the government should consider renaming the new Islamabad airport or a central road in the capital after Liaquat Ali Khan. This gesture would serve as a reminder of the immense sacrifices he made for Pakistan’s creation and survival, while also ensuring that future generations recognise his role in shaping the nation.
Sajjad Ashraf
Islamabad
