Former Pakistan Army chief General Abdul Waheed Kakar passed away in Rawalpindi on Monday, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media affairs wing.
Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, along with all ranks of the Pakistan Army, expressed deep sorrow over his demise, the statement said.
“The CDF and all ranks of the Pakistan Army pay tribute to the late general’s distinguished military career, leadership and invaluable services to the Pakistan Army,” ISPR stated.
The military also extended condolences to the bereaved family, praying that Allah Almighty grant the departed soul the highest place in Jannah and give the family strength and patience during this difficult time.
President Zardari, PM Shehbaz Express Condolences
President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed sorrow over the former army chief’s passing and conveyed his condolences to the family, according to a statement issued by his office.
Understanding the Holy Quran: A Commendable Step in Higher Education
“The president prays for the bereaved family to be granted the strength to bear this loss with patience,” the statement read.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Kakar’s “invaluable services” to the Pakistan Armed Forces while expressing condolences over his death, state broadcaster PTV reported.
PTI Chairman Pays Tribute to Former General
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan also expressed grief over Kakar’s death in a statement posted on X.
Gohar praised the former general’s services to the nation, highlighting his professional dedication and the manner in which he fulfilled his national responsibilities.
He added that Kakar would “always be remembered with honour and respect”.
Abdul Waheed Kakar’s Tenure as Army Chief
General Abdul Waheed Kakar served as Pakistan’s army chief from January 1993 to January 1996.
During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in the political developments of 1993, when he pressured then-president Ghulam Ishaq Khan and then-prime minister Nawaz Sharif to resign. The developments led to fresh elections, following which Benazir Bhutto returned as prime minister.
Kakar retired at the conclusion of his term in January 1996.
