Fazal Amin Shinwari
KHYBER: Former senator Taj Muhammad Afridi passed away on Friday after his vehicle was involved in a fatal accident near Karnal Sher Khan Interchange on the M-1 Motorway, police said.
According to the Motorway Police, Afridi was travelling from Islamabad to Peshawar when his vehicle was involved in an accident, reportedly caused by a technical fault. Rescue 1122 officials confirmed that he died on the spot, while his driver sustained minor injuries.
Swabi Rescue 1122 spokesperson Saqib Shah said emergency teams reached the scene immediately after receiving reports of the crash. The casualties were shifted to Mardan Medical Complex.
Afridi served as a member of the Senate from March 2015 to March 2021. He also served as provincial caretaker minister for relief and rehabilitation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His services in public welfare, democratic strengthening, and legislative affairs were widely acknowledged.
Following the incident, leaders across political and institutional lines expressed deep sorrow over his passing. Among them were District Khyber’s National Assembly member Iqbal Afridi, Senator Dr. Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, and Member Provincial Assembly Allama Adnan Qadri, who conveyed profound grief and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
Separately, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Chief Minister Sohail Afridi also expressed sorrow, terming his death a significant loss for the province.
Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani said that Taj Afridi’s parliamentary, political, and public services would always be remembered. He added that Afridi’s role in promoting public welfare in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and strengthening democratic institutions would remain part of his legacy.
The funeral of the late senator will be held on Saturday at 11:00 AM in Tehsil Jamrud, Takhta Beg. Large gatherings are expected as political leaders, relatives, and local residents prepare to attend the final rites of a leader widely regarded as a friend of the poor and a beloved figure in the region.
