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Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, dead at 88

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 04 Feb, 2025 03:47 PM

The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the world’s Ismaili Muslims, has died at the age of 88.

A post on social media from the Aga Khan Development Network says he passed away peacefully today in Lisbon, surrounded by his family.

His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family. Prince Karim Aga Khan… pic.twitter.com/bxOyR0TyZr
— Aga Khan Development Network (@akdn) February 4, 2025

My statement on the passing of the Aga Khan IV:

//

Ma déclaration sur le décès de l’Aga Khan IV : pic.twitter.com/Clu0XM7kKB
— Arif Virani (@viraniarif) February 5, 2025
Our hearts are with Ismaili Muslims in BC and around the world today, at the news that His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV has died in Lisbon, surrounded by family.

The Aga Khan dedicated his life to peace and human rights. Together, we honour his legacy and leadership. pic.twitter.com/PMxEfVdZfQ
— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) February 5, 2025

Sad to see the passing of the Aga khan. My thoughts are with the Ismaili community in BC and worldwide https://t.co/iERG0tT5o7
— John Rustad (@JohnRustad4BC) February 5, 2025

The Aga Khan was a key figure in an ethics scandal involving Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was found to have breached federal conflict of interest rules by vacationing on the Aga Khan's private island in 2016.

At the time, the ethics commissioner said Trudeau broke the rules by accepting a gift that could be seen as influencing government decisions.

Prime Minister Trudeau paid tribute to the Aga Khan today, calling him a compassionate global leader who will would be deeply missed by people around the world.

The Aga Khan devoted his life to peace and prosperity for all. He worked across continents and cultures to resolve the world’s greatest humanitarian challenges: poverty, education, and gender inequality.

He was an extraordinary man of vision, faith, and generosity, and I know…
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) February 5, 2025

Deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. He was a visionary, who dedicated his life to service and spirituality. His contributions in areas like health, education, rural development and women empowerment will continue to inspire several people. I… pic.twitter.com/ef2lMIQ6H0
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 5, 2025

The Aga Khan helped set up the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa and the first Islamic arts museum in Toronto.

He was granted honorary Canadian citizenship in 2009.

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