ISLAMABAD: Roedad Khan, a former Pakistani bureaucrat, passed away on Sunday at the age of 101, marking the conclusion of a civil servant who had observed the country’s political fluctuations since its independence in 1947.
Khan, who passed away in Islamabad, will be interred following the midday Zuhr prayers at the H-11 graveyard in the city, according to local media reports.
“Roedad Khan passed away today at 101,” veteran journalist and anchor Hamid Mir posted on the social media platform X.
Senior politician Mushahid Hussain Syed paid homage to Khan in a post on X, describing him as a “national icon and legend.”
“He led a fulfilling life dedicated to Pakistan during our turbulent periods and post-retirement,” Syed wrote, acknowledging him for his authored books and advocacy for human rights.
“Truly a remarkable, versatile personality of our era! He will be mourned by his numerous admirers!“
Khan was born on September 28, 1923, in Mardan, Pakistan, before the country gained independence from British colonial India in 1947. Joining the Pakistan Civil Service in 1949, Khan’s illustrious career allowed him to hold numerous esteemed positions.
He served as the chief secretary of Pakistan’s Sindh province and KP, and was also appointed as the managing director of Pakistan Television. Additionally, he served as the secretary of ministries including information, labor, tourism, and interior across various administrations.
Khan also held roles such as the secretary-general of the interior ministry and former adviser to the prime minister.
Throughout his career, he worked alongside five presidents and three former prime ministers, witnessing the country’s political changes.
He celebrated his 100th birthday on September 28, 2023.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)