Following the death of Mawlana Shah Karim Aga Khan IV, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) announced on social media that Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan has become the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslim community.
Karim Aga Khan IV died in Lisbon at the age of 88. He gained global recognition for his philanthropic efforts, achievements in horse racing, and considerable wealth. His legacy spans transformative development initiatives worldwide and significantly impacts thoroughbred racing.
The AKDN shared on social media that the announcement was made in Lisbon on Wednesday, where the late Imam’s will was read in the presence of his family and senior community leaders.
A post on the Ismaili social media website stated:
“In keeping with the centuries-old tradition of nass — the formal designation of a successor — the mantle of leadership has now passed to Mawlana Shah Rahim Aga Khan V.”
The new Imam will assume the spiritual and institutional leadership of the Ismaili community, guiding them into a new era as they mourn the loss of their beloved 49th Imam.
Pakistani leaders expressed their grief over the passing of Karim Aga Khan IV:
President Asif Ali Zardari described him as a great friend of Pakistan, highlighting his contributions to the country’s social sector, particularly in health, education, and community development. and highlighted
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the late Aga Khan for his philanthropic efforts, which brought hope and development to countless communities worldwide.
Read: Mawlana Shah Karim Al-Hussaini, The Aga Khan, Passes Away at 88
Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz, KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur, and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also extended their condolences.
The Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) government declared three days of mourning following the demise of Karim Aga Khan IV. GB Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan expressed deep sorrow and prayed for the departed soul.
