Ex-COAS General Kakar passes away

RAWALPINDI:

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir on Monday expressed sorrow over the passing of former COAS (Retd) General Abdul Waheed Kakar who passed away in Rawalpindi, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

According to the military's media wing, CDF Munir, along with all ranks of the Pakistan Army, paid tribute "to the late general's distinguished military career, leadership and invaluable services to the Pakistan Army."

"The Pakistan Army shares the grief of the bereaved family and offers its heartfelt condolences," the ISPR said, adding, "May Almighty grant the departed soul highest the place in Jannah and give the family strength and patience, Ameen."

General Kakar served as the fifth COAS, appointed by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif on 12 January 1993. Upon the completion of his three-year tenure, he retired in 1996.

 

Political leaders condole death

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed grief over General Kakar's passing, conveying "heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the family."

He also extended prayers for the late general's forgiveness. "May Allah Almighty grant the deceased a place in His mercy," the president's X account posted.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed "deep grief and sorrow" over General Kakar's passing, paying tribute to "his invaluable services to the Pakistan Army," the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said.

It added that PM Shehbaz extended heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family. "May Allah Almighty grant the departed a high place in His mercy and give the bereaved the strength to bear this loss, Ameen," the PMO said.

Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry in a post on X said he was "deeply saddened and grieved" to hear of General Kakar's passing.

"The national services of General ® Abdul Waheed Kakar and his invaluable contributions to the Pakistan Army will always be remembered with honour and respect," Chaudhry said, adding that the general's "demise is a great loss for the country."

The minister also extended prayers for the departed soul, as well as "patience and noble endurance" for the bereaved family.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan also condoled the death, expressing "profound grief and sorrow."

"The deceased's invaluable services to the country and nation, his professional struggles, and his role in fulfilling national duties will always be remembered with honour and respect," Barrister Gohar said. He added, "I extend heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the deceased's family and all bereaved relatives," praying for the late general's elevated ranks.