Former senator Professor Khurshid Ahmad, a distinguished economist, philosopher, and former Naib Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), has passed away at the age of 92 in Leicester, United Kingdom, on Sunday.

Political Career

His extensive political career encompassed several terms as a Senator, specifically in 1985, 1997, and 2002. He also served as the Federal Minister for Commerce and Planning in 1978 and held the position of deputy chairman within the Planning Commission.

Academic Achievements

Professor Ahmad was a highly regarded academic and the founding chairman of both the Institute of Policy Studies in Islamabad and the Islamic Foundation in Leicester. He authored a remarkable 70 books in English and Urdu and served as the editor for JI’s monthly publication, ‘Tarjamanul Quraan’.

In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, Saudi Arabia’s Shah Faisal Award, the Islamic Development Bank’s award, the Islamic Bank award, and numerous other accolades.

In addition to his involvement with various institutions, he held the position of chairman at the International Institute of Economics of the International Islamic University from 1984 to 1992 and served as Vice President of Shah Abdul Aziz University, Jeddah.

Professor Khurshid played a pivotal role in developing Islamic economic jurisprudence as a formal academic discipline. Furthermore, he co-founded The Islamic Foundation in Leicester, UK, alongside Khurram Murad, and remained affiliated with the foundation until his passing.

Professor Ahmad, a visionary in Islamic economics, a respected scholar, and a prominent thought leader, dedicated his life to pursuing intellectual excellence, shaping policy, and advancing knowledge grounded in Islamic principles.

His lasting contributions to education, economics, and public discourse will continue to inspire future generations.

Born in New Delhi on March 23, 1932, Professor Ahmad earned Master’s Degrees in Economics and Islamic Studies with honors.

Professor Ahmad, also the elder brother of senior educationist Dr. Anis Ahmad, became a member of Islami Jamiat-e-Talaba in 1949 and later joined Jamaat-e-Islami in 1956.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with the Senate Chairman and Deputy Chairman, the National Assembly Speaker and Deputy Speaker, Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, JI Ameer Hafiz Naeemur, and numerous others, have expressed their condolences on the passing of Professor Khurshid Ahmad.

He was also honored for his contributions to Islamic research, the economy, and his service as a politician and Member of the Senate.