Zardari describes him as not only a monumental humanitarian but also an enduring symbol of national pride
A file photo of late Abdul Sattar Edhi. PHOTO: PUBLICITY/FILE
The 10th death anniversary of renowned humanitarian and philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi was observed on Wednesday, with President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paying tribute to his enduring legacy of public service and humanitarian work.
Born on February 28, 1928, in Gujarat, British India, Edhi began his welfare work in 1951 and went on to establish one of Pakistan’s largest charitable organisations.
He founded what became the world’s largest volunteer ambulance network, alongside shelters for homeless people and animals, orphanages, and welfare centres serving poor families, women, children, and people with disabilities across the country.
In recognition of his services to humanity, Edhi received numerous national and international honours, including the Asian Nobel Award, the Lenin Peace Prize, and the Nishan-e-Imtiaz.
Edhi died in Karachi on July 8, 2016, at the age of 88.
In a message issued to mark the occasion, President Zardari described Edhi as “not only a monumental humanitarian but also an enduring symbol of national pride”.
“Abdul Sattar Edhi was not only a monumental humanitarian but also an enduring symbol of national pride. His tireless work built institutions that continue to serve millions, standing as a living testament to his profound vision. His legacy remains a beacon to uphold the values… pic.twitter.com/6M70VAPCxX
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) July 8, 2026
“His tireless work built institutions that continue to serve millions, standing as a living testament to his profound vision. His legacy remains a beacon to uphold the values of empathy, charity, and dignity for all,” the president said.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Edhi’s lifelong commitment to serving humanity made him “a source of pride for the nation and a national asset”.
Paying tribute to his welfare services, the prime minister said Edhi highlighted the social dimensions of addressing public problems through his sincere dedication to the welfare of others, adding that his contributions formed an extraordinary chapter in Pakistan’s social history.
He said personalities such as Edhi were role models for the younger generation, proving that every individual could play a constructive role in bringing about positive social change.
The prime minister added that Edhi’s public service promoted values of compassion, tolerance and social harmony, and prayed for his elevated ranks, saying his contributions to society would always be remembered.
