Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a veteran politician of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), passed away after a brief illness on Monday night following a life dedicated to public service and the advancement of democratic dialogue in Pakistan.
The news of Siddiqui’s death followed an earlier statement of his family rejecting rumors he had been placed on a ventilator. They said he was admitted to an intensive care unit due to breathing difficulties, adding he had been receiving treatment at a local hospital in Islamabad for the past few days due to respiratory distress.
Siddiqui launched his career in the public eye as a distinguished columnist and political commentator before his full entry into elected politics. A PMLN stalwart, he held prominent roles during their times in government, including as special adviser on national affairs and parliamentary party leader in the Senate.
He received the Hilal-e-Imtiaz in 2014, reflecting his contributions to public life and discourse.
In the Senate, Siddiqui was elected from Punjab in March 2021 and continued serving in the Upper House until his death. He also chaired the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and was deeply involved in parliamentary work on domestic and international issues.
As a columnist and public intellectual, he engaged with Pakistan’s evolving political landscape, offering analysis, critique, and insights. His voice bridged journalism and governance, and his presence in both spheres lent him a unique perspective.
His colleagues remember him as a thoughtful, courteous, and refined individual whose debates were grounded in logic, tolerance and consideration rather than mere rhetoric. In a statement of condolence, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan has lost “a sagacious thinker, teacher and principled intellectual.” He described Siddiqui as an important member of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), saying his services to the party would always be remembered.
“He was counted among the loyal companions of Mian Nawaz Sharif and the party,” he said. “Siddiqui’s services to the party will always be remembered,” he added. Siddiqui’s academic services and national insight will remain a beacon of light for future generations, continued Sharif. “He was a kind, gentle and extremely refined person,” he said, noting Siddiqui gave guidance on every occasion, based on positive thinking and academic integrity.
“His death is a great loss for me, for the academic world and for society. May Allah Almighty grant the deceased a high place in Paradise and give patience to the bereaved family,” he added.
President Asif Ali Zardari also extended his condolences to the senator’s family on their loss. In a statement from the President’s House, he paid tribute to Siddiqui, adding the deceased had made “immense contributions” to democracy in Pakistan.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also extended his condolences and praised Siddiqui as a “champion of high traditions in both journalism and politics.”
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed deep grief and sorrow over the demise of Siddiqui, saying Pakistani politics has lost a distinguished and dignified politician.
The senator leaves behind a legacy of committed public service, intellectual engagement and political integrity. He demonstrated a career in journalism and a life in politics could be joined by a common thread of dialogue, reflection and dedication to national welfare.