The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has declared a three-day mourning period following the death of one of its most respected and longstanding members, Senator Taj Haider. The decision was made on the directives of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and entails the suspension of all political activities by the party for the duration of the mourning.
Taj Haider, aged 83, passed away in Karachi after a brief illness. He was receiving medical treatment at a private hospital at the time of his death. The news of his passing has sent waves of sorrow throughout Pakistan’s political, literary, and intellectual circles, as tributes pour in recognizing his unmatched contributions to democracy, social justice, and progressive politics in the country.
Funeral Arrangements for Taj Haider
The funeral prayers for the late Taj Haider are scheduled to be offered today, Wednesday, after Zuhr prayers. The services will be held at the Masjid and Imambargah Yathrib, located in Phase 4 of the Defence Housing Authority (DHA) in Karachi. His burial is expected to draw senior PPP leadership, political allies, civil society representatives, and members of the public who admired his lifelong commitment to democratic ideals.
A Founding Member of the Pakistan Peoples Party
Taj Haider was not just a senior figure within the PPP — he was one of its founding members. Born on March 8, 1942, in Kota, Rajasthan, British India, he migrated to Pakistan during the partition. He later joined the movement led by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and helped shape the ideological foundations of the PPP when it was formed in 1967.
Over the years, Haider became known as a pillar of left-wing and democratic politics in Pakistan. He was a staunch advocate for social equity, minority rights, and political integrity, and played a key role in shaping PPP’s policy directions, especially during its formative years.
Political Career: From the Streets to the Senate
Taj Haider remained active in national politics for more than five decades. A loyal PPP ideologue, he held several important positions in both the party and in Parliament. He was appointed as a Senator twice — from 2012 to 2018, and again from 2021 until his passing in 2025.
As a member of the Senate, he served on several key committees, including the Senate Standing Committee on Rules of Procedure and Privileges, and contributed significantly to legislative debates. Known for his eloquence and intellectual depth, Haider often raised important issues related to human rights, democracy, and governance.
A Multidimensional Personality: Scholar, Playwright, and Social Activist
Taj Haider was not limited to politics. He was a polymath with contributions across several fields including education, literature, and the arts. He held a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Karachi and began his professional career as a professor before venturing into politics full-time.
Haider also had a profound interest in the arts. He authored several plays and drama serials for Pakistan Television (PTV) during the 1970s and 1980s — many of which were socially charged and reflected progressive values. His literary output earned him admiration across Pakistan’s artistic community, and his works remain influential even today.
A Voice for Democracy and Justice
Throughout his life, Taj Haider was known as a voice of conscience within the political landscape of Pakistan. He remained steadfast during periods of political repression, including General Zia-ul-Haq’s martial law regime, when many democratic activists were jailed or forced into exile. Haider stood his ground, often participating in protest movements and writing extensively on democratic rights.
Even in his later years, he remained committed to democratic causes. He frequently penned newspaper columns, made television appearances, and mentored younger political activists. He also played a pivotal role in shaping PPP’s stance on several national issues, including education reform, energy policy, and minority rights.
National Tributes Pour In
Following the announcement of his death, tributes from across Pakistan poured in for Taj Haider. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow, describing Haider as a “guiding light for democratic and progressive politics in Pakistan.” In a condolence message, Zardari said, “Taj Haider’s ideological commitment, honesty, and tireless efforts for democracy will forever remain a part of PPP’s legacy.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also issued a heartfelt statement, calling Haider a “statesman of great wisdom and humility.” The PM noted that the country had lost a valuable voice for peace, justice, and political integrity.
Bilawal Bhutto’s Emotional Tribute
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid an emotional tribute to the veteran leader, stating that Taj Haider was not only a founding member of the PPP but also a symbol of the party’s ideological resilience. “He guided us with his wisdom and was an institution in himself. His loss is a personal and political tragedy for me and for our party,” said Bhutto in a press release.
Bilawal announced a three-day mourning period, during which all PPP political activities will remain suspended across Pakistan as a mark of respect. The party’s flags at offices will fly at half-mast, and special prayer ceremonies will be held in various cities.
Remembering a Life of Principle
In a time when political opportunism often overshadows principle, Taj Haider stood out as a man of unwavering ethics. He refused to compromise on his ideals, whether in the face of dictatorship or within the ever-changing landscape of Pakistani politics.
He was often described by colleagues as a “gentle revolutionary”—someone who believed in the power of words, democratic institutions, and civil engagement to bring about social transformation. For many younger PPP workers and political activists, he was both a mentor and a moral compass.
A Family of Scholars and Reformers
Taj Haider came from an illustrious family. His father, Professor Karrar Hussain, was a respected Islamic scholar, writer, and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Balochistan. Taj Haider himself often spoke about how his family’s emphasis on knowledge and critical thinking shaped his worldview. He carried forward that legacy through both his political and literary endeavors.
The End of an Era
With the passing of Taj Haider, Pakistan has lost not just a politician but a guardian of its democratic ideals. His legacy will continue to live on through his writings, his political contributions, and the countless individuals he inspired throughout his life.
As the Pakistan Peoples Party enters a period of mourning, the entire nation reflects on the immense contributions made by this towering figure of intellect, honesty, and democratic integrity. His absence will be deeply felt — but his influence will endure for generations to come.
