Daily Times

Politicians and public figures took to Twitter to pay tribute to former air chief marshal Asghar Khan who passed away in Islamabad on Friday.

ISPR DG Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor tweeted, “?COAS expresses his grief on sad demise of ex Air Chief, Air Marshal Asghar Khan, Retired. An iconic soldier who will be remembered for his historic contributions for laying foundations of a strong Pakistan Air Force. May Allah bless his soul-Amen.”

PTI Chairman Imran Khan tweeted, “Saddened to learn of Air Chief Marshal Asghar Khan’s death early this morning. He transformed the PAF and was a man of steadfast principles and integrity. My prayers and condolences go to his family.”

PTI leader Jahangir Khan Tareen said, “?Deeply saddened by the demise of Air Chief Marshall, Asghar Khan. His stellar services for Pakistan Air Force & his unflinching integrity will always serve as beacon of light for coming generations. May Allah bless his soul with the highest rank in heaven.”

Foreign Minister Khawaja M Asif tweeted, “?AIR MARSHAL ASGHAR KHAN national hero & architect of our Air force. Nation will always be indebted to him for making our skies impregnable.. Man of integrity,un matched honesty & a true patriot..GOD bless his soul.”

Journalist Talat Aslam said, “RIP Asghar Khan. An officer and gentleman of the old school. Will always be remembered for his integrity and character. Despite his immense popularity at a certain stage of our history, as a politician Asghar Khan never quite achieved the success he aspired to and deserved.”

Analyst Raoof Hasan said “Deeply saddened to hear of the passing away of AM Asghar Khan, an icon of unimpeachable integrity and character – such rare commodities around us. Prayers for his salvation and condolences with the bereaved.”

PTI leader Dr. Arif Alvi tweeted, “What a great loss. Air Marshal Asghar Khan who was an icon of service to his country and torch bearer of honest politics in Pakistan. Remember with pride his fondness for me & our meetings during the last two decades. May his soul rest in peace.”

Journalist Mohammad Taqi tweeted, “Many #Pakistani politicians including the three-time prime minister Mian Nawaz Sharif, started their career in Air Marshal #AsgharKhan’s Tehrik-e-Istaqlal, which was once considered a viable alternative to the PPP.”

Published in Daily Times, January 6^th 2018.