Former Sindh Assembly speaker Agha Siraj Durrani passes away
A file photo of Speaker Sindh Assembly Agha Siraj Durrani. PHOTO: EXPRESS
Senior Pakistan Peoples Party leader and former speaker of the Sindh Assembly, Agha Siraj Durrani, has passed away. President Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah have expressed deep sorrow and grief over his death.
Agha Siraj Durrani passed away at the age of 72 while under treatment at a private hospital in Karachi. The senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader had suffered a brain haemorrhage a month ago and had been hospitalised since. His condition deteriorated again a few days ago, and doctors confirmed his death on Wednesday.
Agha Siraj Durrani, considered among the senior-most leaders of the PPP, was born on October 5, 1953 in Shikarpur. He received his early education from St Patrick’s High School and later obtained a law degree (LLB) from Sindh Muslim Government Law College.
He was elected twice as Speaker of the Sindh Assembly and held the position from May 31, 2013, to May 24, 2024. He also served as acting Governor of Sindh from March to October 2022.
Durrani had been associated with the Pakistan Peoples Party for over four decades. He was first elected to the Sindh Assembly in 1988, served as provincial minister three times, and as Speaker twice. He was regarded as a trusted ally of the late Benazir Bhutto and President Asif Ali Zardari.
Condolences from political leaders
President Asif Ali Zardari released a statement expressing grief over Agha Siraj Durrani’s demise and paid tribute to his political and democratic services.
President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Speaker of the Sindh Assembly, Agha Siraj Durrani. The President paid tribute to his political and public services, noting his role in strengthening democracy and serving the people of Sindh.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a statement, paid tribute to the late Agha Siraj Durrani for his services as the Sindh Assembly speaker, saying that his contributions to politics and public welfare would always be remembered.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah visited the late politician's home and gave his condolences, praising the late Agha Siraj Durrani as a sincere, loyal, and principled leader of the PPP.
He noted that Durrani played a vital role in strengthening the Sindh Assembly and consolidating democracy. “His services will always be remembered; he made public service the cornerstone of his politics,” he added.
The Chief Minister prayed for the elevation of the departed soul’s ranks and extended condolences to Durrani’s family.
Sindh CM @MuradAliShahPPP visited residence of late Agha Siraj Khan Durrani to offer condolences to his family.
Accompanied by Ministers Zia Lanjar, Saeed Ghani, Ismail Rahu, the CM said Agha Sb was a distinguished politician, sincere friend & kind human being. pic.twitter.com/eiyGqeSJ2KSindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon also expressed grief over Durrani’s demise, describing Durrani as a dignified, loyal, and seasoned politician who devoted his life to serving the people of the province. “Agha Siraj Durrani was not only a devoted worker of the PPP but also a champion of democratic traditions. His entire life was spent in the struggle for public service, democratic supremacy, and the rights of the people,” he said.
Sharjeel Memon added that Durrani’s political insight, administrative capability, and parliamentary experience were valuable assets to the party, and his passing has created a major void in Sindh’s politics that will not be filled for a long time.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi took to the social media platform X to voice his condolences, "A committed democrat and dedicated public servant, he played a vital role in strengthening parliamentary traditions and upholding democratic values."
Deeply saddened by the passing of former Speaker Sindh Assembly, Agha Siraj Durrani. A committed democrat and dedicated public servant, he played a vital role in strengthening parliamentary traditions and upholding democratic values. My heartfelt condolences to his family and…
Sindh Home Minister Zia-Ul-Hassan Lanjar also expressed deep sorrow and said Agha Siraj Durrani’s services will always be remembered. He said the late leader played a key role in strengthening democracy and promoting public representation, adding, “Politicians of Agha Siraj Durrani’s calibre are rare.”
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Sindh Assembly Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani. In his message of condolence, he prayed for the complete forgiveness of the deceased and for patience and strength for the bereaved family.
Wahab said he was deeply saddened to hear the news of Agha Siraj Durrani’s demise, describing him as a dignified and principled political figure. He added that Agha Siraj Durrani’s political wisdom and lifelong commitment to public service will always be remembered.
Praying for the departed soul, He asked Allah Almighty to grant him a high rank in Jannat-ul-Firdous. He further said that he stands in solidarity with the grieving family in this difficult time.