Former PML-N spokesperson Zaeem Qadri dies at 61

LAHORE:

Zaeem Qadri, co-founder and spokesperson of Awaam Pakistan, died on Friday morning at the age of 61.

Qadri, a former provincial minister and former chief spokesperson of the then Punjab Chief Minister and now Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, was admitted to a private defense hospital three days ago due to a heart problem.

He separated from the PML-N in 2018 after developing differences with the party leadership, particularly over what he calls dynastic politics. His wife, Uzma Zaeem, continued her association with the party and served as an MP until 2023.

His funeral prayers were offered after evening prayers near his residence on Lawrence Road on Friday evening.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed sadness over the death, extending his sympathy and condolences to the bereaved family. “May God grant the soul of the deceased a place in His mercy and grant the bereaved family patience,” He Naqvi said.

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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also expressed sadness over Qadri’s death, expressing sympathy and condolences to his family.

Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said, “I was deeply shocked to hear the news of the death of senior politician Zaeem Qadri,” adding that the deceased’s political and social services would always be remembered.

He said Qadri played a leading role in public service and in promoting democratic values.

“I also share the grief of the bereaved family and express my sincere sympathy. May God grant the soul of the deceased a high place in His mercy and grant patience to the family,” he said.

Other former PML-N colleagues also paid tribute to him.

His last affiliated party also posted a message in his honor on X.

“My good friend, one of the founders of Awaam Pakistan and our leader of Punjab, a courageous political leader and a kind and generous human being, Syed Zaeem Hussain Qadri, has passed away. His passing away leaves a big void in the democratic politics of Pakistan. May he rest in peace and may his family have the fortitude to bear his irreparable loss,” senior party leader Ahsan Iqbal said.