Pakistani-born Canadian author Tarek Fatah dies at 73

The controversial television personality loses battle against cancer


News Desk April 24, 2023
PHOTO: TAREK FATEH/TWITTER

Tarek Fatah, a Pakistani-born Canadian columnist, journalist, and television personality, passed away on Monday at the age of 73.

Fatah, who was battling cancer, died in Canada, according to reports in Indian media. His daughter, Natasha Fatah, confirmed his death on her Twitter handle.

Fatah was a well-known figure in the media industry, with a reputation for being a controversial and outspoken voice on a range of issues.

He was born in Karachi, Pakistan, in 1949 and moved to Canada in the early 1980s, where he worked as a political activist, journalist, and television host. He was also an author and penned several books throughout his career.

Fatah was the founder of the Muslim Canadian Congress and a regular columnist for one of the country’s largest newspapers. He was known for his liberal views and was considered a staunch critic of virtually everything related to Pakistan.

Also read: Pakistan-born author Tarek Fatah targeted at Delhi Urdu festival

Fatah had a frequent broadcast presence and was a vocal advocate for the rights of the downtrodden, underdogs, and the oppressed.

Fatah's daughter, Natasha, paid tribute to her father on Twitter, describing him as the "Lion of Punjab" and the "Son of Hindustan." She said that Fatah's revolution would continue with all those who knew and loved him, and asked others to join them in carrying on his legacy.

 

COMMENTS (12)

Humza | 1 year ago | Reply Tarek Fatah s family cam from Bombay India and settled in Karachi. He pretended to be Punjabi . He did not identify as Pakistani but Indian and he never wasted a second to badmouth Pakistan and support India at every occasion. Although I did not agree with his philosophy our identity and nation is strong enough to counter the propaganda of anti Pakistani writers like him. I think detractors like him help patriotic Pakistanis learn to stand up for Pakistan and support it.
Atta | 1 year ago | Reply He indeed was a distinct voice in a vocal way.
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