TDS Desk:

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed profound shock at the death of the 49th hereditary imam of Ismaili Muslims, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV.

He expressed his sorrow in a condolence message sent to Aga Khan IV’s son Prince Rahim Aga Khan who was named Wednesday as the new Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the world’s millions of Ismaili Muslims.

Aga Khan IV died Tuesday in Portugal.

The chief adviser said: “It is with deep sorrow that I extend, on behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh, our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your esteemed father, 49th hereditary imam of Ismaili Muslims, His Highness Maulana Shah Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV.”

He said that Aga Khan IV’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the people’s well-being has been exemplary, according to a message received on Thursday.

Prof Yunus said: “Over the decades, I had regarded him for his dedication to champion empathy, harmony, and pluralism. With great fondness and reverence, I recall my conversations with His Highness and his ideas to uplift livelihoods of communities in diverse parts of the world”.

“I shall cherish my friendship with His Highness Aga Khan IV. I had the distinct honour to work with him on the board of his foundation, and had many occasions to visit with him and also have many discussions on issues of common concern and interest at many board meetings and conferences,” he further said.

Dr Yunus said that as he had been to the far-flung parts of the world, he had seen for himself how the initiatives of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) had left indelible marks on the ground.

He added that Aga Khan’s focus on learning and culture, in particular, truly emanated from his vision to touch souls beyond identities or distinctions.

“In Bangladesh, we will remember His Highness for the ways he wished to stand by our people, to help us transform minds of the posterity, uphold heritage and support the vulnerable,” he said.

In a truly landmark moment for Grameen Bank, the Aga Khan Architectural Award was given for the design of its $500 home for its members/borrowers- a bold and visionary decision, he further added.

Many in Bangladesh would hold him dearly to their hearts for he brought the AKDN to Bangladesh with an expanded Protocol in 2013, he continued.

The chief adviser said the Aga Khan Academy, in the heart of Dhaka City, remains one shining instance of his vision and determination.

“I and the people of Bangladesh would stand ready to build on the valued legacy of His Highness by impact fully translating the provisions of the Protocol,” he said.

“In this time of immense grief, we stand in solidarity with you, your family, and the entire Ismaili community around the world,” the chief adviser wrote to Prince Rahim.

He said that he wished they would draw on the enduring legacy of His Highness, whose spirit of service and humanity would continue to inspire generations to come across continents.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with you and your bereaved family. May the Almighty Allah grant His Highness eternal peace and your family solace during this most difficult time,” he added.