Senior PML-N leader and close confidant of Nawaz Sharif succumbs to long illness; tributes pour in from political and literary circles
ISLAMABAD: Senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and Senator Irfan Siddiqui passed away on Monday night after a prolonged illness. He had been under treatment at a local hospital in Islamabad for nearly two weeks, family sources confirmed.
The veteran lawmaker, writer, and journalist was regarded as one of the closest confidants of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, serving him in various political and advisory roles over several decades.
Long battle with illness
Family sources said Senator Siddiqui had been battling health complications for an extended period. Despite his deteriorating condition, he continued to actively participate in party affairs until recently, serving as the parliamentary leader of the PML-N in the Senate.
Recognised for his intellectual depth, Siddiqui was also a noted journalist, poet, and scholar, awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz for his contributions to national thought and literature.
Condolences pour in
Condolences poured in from across Pakistan’s political spectrum following the announcement of his passing.
President Asif Ali Zardari, expressing grief, said Senator Siddiqui made immense contributions to strengthening democracy and promoting intellectual discourse in Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed his death “a great national loss,” describing him as “a serious thinker, a teacher, and a principled intellectual.”
“Irfan Siddiqui devoted his life to knowledge, tolerance, and intellectual integrity,” the premier said, adding that his contributions “will continue to inspire generations.”
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also expressed deep sorrow, calling his passing “a great loss for Pakistani politics.” She described Siddiqui as “a master of political traditions and a dignified statesman whose contributions will always be remembered.”
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi likewise extended condolences, with Naqvi calling him “a man of high principles, both in journalism and politics.”
Nawaz Sharif’s tribute: ‘A loyal friend and brother’
In an emotional message, Nawaz Sharif said he was deeply grieved by the death of his “sincere, trusted, and loyal brother.”
“I loved Irfan Siddiqui dearly. It is impossible to express my sorrow in words,” he said.
“He was a unique writer, a humble human being, and a bright-minded personality who enriched both politics and literature in Pakistan.”
Family denies earlier false reports
Earlier on Monday, the senator’s family had issued a statement refuting false social media claims suggesting that he had been placed on a ventilator.
The family clarified that Siddiqui was under medical treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to respiratory complications but had not been shifted to life support.
They condemned the spread of misinformation, calling it “deeply regrettable and distressing,” and urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified news about his health.
A lasting legacy
Colleagues and observers alike hailed Senator Irfan Siddiqui as a pillar of intellect, loyalty, and grace in Pakistan’s political and literary landscape. His passing marks the end of an era for the PML-N, where he was seen as both a mentor and a moral compass.