Born on November 13, 1899, Sahibzada Syed Iskander Ali Mirza emerged as a pivotal figure in the early years of Pakistan.
His journey spanned from serving as the fourth Governor-General from October 6, 1955, to becoming the nation’s first President of the Islamic Republic on March 23, 1956, until his controversial ousting on October 27, 1958. Mirza’s life came to a close on his 70th birthday in 1969, a poignant reminder of the struggles he faced, including inadequate medical care in his later years. As we approach the 125th anniversary of his birth, a deeper exploration of his legacy is warranted.
Mirza was born in Murshidabad, West Bengal, into a family of distinction, claiming lineage from Mir Jaffar, the last Nawab of Bengal. His academic pursuits led him to Elphinstone College in Bombay, and he made history as one of the first Indian cadets to graduate from the prestigious Sandhurst Academy. In 1920, he joined the British Indian Army, and by 1926, he had been inducted into the Indian Political Service (IPS), a role typically reserved for British officials, where he managed relations with the Princely States and foreign affairs.
Throughout his career, Mirza showcased his administrative prowess, particularly in the regions now known as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His reputation solidified as he played a critical role in supporting Mr. Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s efforts to establish a Muslim League ministry in the North-West Frontier Province in 1943, which earned him respect as a bold and capable administrator.
During his presidency, Mirza made significant contributions, including the adoption of Pakistan’s first constitution, which formally established the country as an Islamic republic.
Following the independence of Pakistan, Mirza was appointed as the first Defence Secretary, a role he performed for nearly seven years. During this time, he was instrumental in consolidating the armed forces and facilitating the appointment of Major General Ayub Khan as the Commander-in-Chief of the Army after the tragic loss of Lt Gen Iftikhar Khan in an air crash. His adeptness at navigating a tumultuous political landscape became increasingly evident as Pakistan faced instability and conflict.
The political chaos that ensued led to significant crises, notably the riots in Punjab in 1953, which culminated in the dismissal of Prime Minister Khwaja Nazimuddin. Mirza’s decisive actions during these turbulent times, including his declaration of martial law, garnered him a reputation as a strongman but also raised questions regarding his commitment to democratic principles.
In 1954, the opposition United Front defeated the ruling Muslim League, prompting the imposition of governor’s rule with Mirza at the helm. The weight of personal tragedy, including the death of his son, compounded the challenges he faced. Eventually, he forged a partnership with Ayub Khan, leading to his appointment as the fourth Governor-General and later as the first President of Pakistan when the nation transitioned to a republic in 1956.
During his presidency, Mirza made significant contributions, including the adoption of Pakistan’s first constitution, which formally established the country as an Islamic republic. He also oversaw the strategic acquisition of Gwadar from Oman, a move supported by Prime Minister Feroze Khan Noon.
On a personal level, Mirza’s second marriage to Begum Nahid Mirza, born Nahid Amir Teymour, marked a transformative chapter in his life. As Pakistan’s first First Lady, she brought elegance and compassion to his administration, engaging actively in charitable endeavors. Their bond deepened during a time of profound personal loss for Mirza, ultimately leading to their marriage in September 1953.
Despite these achievements, Mirza’s presidency ended in turmoil. He asserted that democracy without literacy was hypocrisy. Believing that the constitution was ineffective in addressing the nation’s challenges, he declared martial law on October 7, 1958, appointing Ayub Khan as Chief Martial Law Administrator. This decision marked a critical turning point; within weeks, he was compelled to resign under pressure from the military establishment.
In exile, Mirza faced a stark contrast to his earlier life, living in financial hardship in South Kensington, London, where he operated a modest Pakistani restaurant. His later years were marked by despair; he lamented his inability to afford medical treatment, passing away on November 13, 1969, without the opportunity for a dignified burial in Pakistan. Instead, he received a state funeral in Iran, highlighting the tragic irony of his legacy.
Begum Naheed Mirza lived on for half a century, returning to Pakistan briefly in 1998, where she received a warm welcome from Benazir Bhutto. In her later years, she reflected on their life together and continued to advocate for her husband’s legacy.
Iskander Mirza’s story is one of complexity and contradiction. A man committed to governance, he wrestled with the realities of a nascent state. His unfinished memoirs now published offer unique insights into Pakistan’s early political landscape, revealing the internal and external pressures he navigated.
In evaluating Mirza’s legacy, it is essential to separate the man from the narratives that have emerged around him. While he made significant mistakes, including the imposition of martial law, his role in shaping Pakistan’s formative years cannot be overlooked. As we reflect on his contributions and failures, it is crucial to consider the historical context marked by immense challenges and shifting loyalties. In this light, Sahibzada Syed Iskander Ali Mirza emerges not merely as a controversial figure, but as a significant player in the unfolding drama of Pakistan’s history.
The writer is a global health and public policy specialist of Pakistan