Prince Karim Al-Husseini, Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community and known for his development work around the world, has died in Lisbon at the age of 88, according to the Aga Khan Development Network on X.
The announcement of his designated successor will follow, the network said.
The 49th hereditary imam or spiritual leader of the world’s 15 million Ismailis, his name also became synonymous with success as a racehorse owner, with the thoroughbred Shergar among his most famous.
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The international jet setter — who held British, French, Swiss and Portuguese citizenship — poured millions into helping people in the poorest parts of the world.
“If you travel the developing world, you see poverty is the driver of tragic despair, and there is the possibility that any means out will be taken,” he told the New York Times in a rare interview in 2007.
By assisting the poor through business, he told the newspaper, “we are developing protection against extremism”.
Condolences pour in
Condolences poured in soon after the Aga Khan’s death, with global leaders remembering his humanitarian efforts.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he joined the Ismaili community in mourning the “colossal loss from the passing away of Prince Karim Aga Khan”.
“A man of vision, faith, and generosity, his enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations. His contributions transcended borders, bringing hope and progress to communities in need,” PM Shehbaz said on X.
Calling him a remarkable leader, the premier noted: “Through his tireless efforts in poverty alleviation, healthcare, and gender equality, he championed the cause of the marginalised, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.”
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also expressed his sorrow, his ministry said on X. “Services of the late Prince Karim Aga Khan for social sectors are unforgettable,” he was quoted as saying.
Naqvi highlighted his “significant contributions in the fields of education and health in Pakistan”, adding: “The world has lost a compassionate figure.”
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Deputy PM Ishaq Dar also expressed his condolences on X, stating he was “deeply saddened” by the news.
Dar said the Aga Khan’s “unwavering dedication to philanthropy and the betterment of communities worldwide has left an indelible mark on the world”. “His special attachment to Pakistan and his matchless contribution to the development and progress of its people can never be forgotten.
“Pakistan mourns his loss and cherishes his inspiring legacy,” the deputy PM said.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari shared a picture of himself with Prince Karim Al-Husseini, calling him a “remarkable visionary, a leader and humanitarian whose dedication to improving lives knew no boundaries”.
“His legacy of service, wisdom, and compassion will continue to guide and inspire generations. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the Ismaili community around the world,” the former foreign minister wrote.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres posted on X that he was deeply saddened by the news.
“He was a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world,” the UN chief wrote, conveying his condolences to the Aga Khan’s family and the Ismaili community.