Altaf Hussain, the founder and leader of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), was hospitalised late Sunday after a reported deterioration in his health, according to official party statements.
In a series of posts on X early Monday, the MQM said Hussain was admitted to a London hospital on Sunday evening. The party confirmed that doctors advised a blood transfusion, which is currently being administered.
Earlier updates stated that medical staff initially treated him for weakness by administering an injection and placing him on an intravenous drip. MQM officials added that doctors plan to conduct a detailed medical assessment later on Monday to determine the next course of treatment.
The 73-year-old leader has faced recurring health concerns in recent years. He was also hospitalised in July 2025 for routine medical checks and a blood transfusion.
Hussain has lived in self-imposed exile in London for more than three decades. He sought political asylum in the United Kingdom in 1992 and later obtained British citizenship.
Pakistani authorities have repeatedly sought legal action against him over allegations of inciting violence and unrest in Pakistan. Hussain has consistently denied the accusations.
Born in Karachi in 1953, Hussain co-founded the All-Pakistan Mohajir Students Organisation (APMSO) in 1978. He later established the MQM in 1984 to represent the political interests of the Urdu-speaking Mohajir community that migrated to Pakistan during the 1947 Partition.
His political career has remained deeply controversial. In August 2016, a speech delivered via telephone to supporters in Karachi was followed by incidents of vandalism and anti-state slogans. In June 2019, Scotland Yard arrested Hussain, charging him under the Serious Crime Act 2007 for allegedly encouraging terrorism. He was later released on bail, and legal proceedings continued under UK law.
