At the time when corruption and selfishness is becoming part and parcel of lives of Pakistani politicians and country’s political parties are losing trust in the general public we are also losing honest and respectful political personalities which is very unfortunate. According to media news veteran politician and vice Amir of Jamat-e-Islami Pakistan Professor Ghafoor Ahmed passed away in local hospital after some illness. Due to his neat and clean political career, Professor Ghafoor Ahmed was respected and acceptable by all political circles in Pakistan. Jamat-e-Islami’s rival MQM’s high ranking delegation immediately visited his home after his death. Prime Minister, President and heads of all political parties also showed their grief at the tragic death and large number of people also attended his funeral. Professor Ghafoor started his political career in his early days and later joined Jamat-e-Islami.
He was secretary general of PNA or Pakistan National Alliance and played an important role in struggle against former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He was also a Secretary General of IJI or Islamic Democratic Alliance. IJI later won elections against PPP of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Professor Ghafoor was also a part of the team who crafted 1973 constitution. The 1973 constitution is considered a great achievement of political parties because it was acceptable for all factions of Pakistan political circles.
Several times he was elected Member of Parliament. He was also appointed as federal minister during General Zia’s era. Despite enjoying positions, he spent a simple life without any luxuries and set great example of honesty in politics. Ghafoor wrote several books and shared his long political experience with the countrymen.
KHAWAJA UMER FAROOQ,
Jeddah, December 27.