MIRPUR (Dunya News) – Azad Jammu and Kashmir President Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry has passed away at the age of 71, the Pakistan Peoples Party’s media office confirmed on Saturday.
His death has brought to an end a political career spanning several decades, during which he remained a central figure in Azad Kashmir’s leadership and governance.
According to the PPP statement, Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry died in Islamabad after a prolonged illness. His funeral prayers will be offered on Sunday at 3 pm in his native village of Chichiyan, located in Mirpur district.
Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry was first elected as the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in 1996 and later assumed office as the President of AJK in 2021. Over the course of his political life, he was elected nine times as a member of the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly from Mirpur, reflecting his sustained political influence and electoral support in the region.
His passing comes just days before Kashmir Solidarity Day, observed on February 5 each year, when the nation reiterates its support for the Kashmiri people and their right to self-determination.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep grief over Chaudhry’s death, offering prayers for his forgiveness and elevation in the hereafter. In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Zardari also extended condolences to the bereaved family and described Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry’s national and political services as invaluable.
Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gillani also expressed sorrow over the demise of the AJK president, describing him as a dignified, principled politician and a capable administrator. He said Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry played a significant role in raising the Kashmir issue at the international level and noted that his political struggle would continue to inspire future generations. Gillani further extended his sympathies to the family of the deceased.