It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of an iconic figure, Gohar Ayub Khan, a scion of the influential Ayub Khan’s family from Haripur KP. . Gohar Ayub Khan’s presence bore witness to numerous pivotal political events, many of which he chronicled in his authored book “Glimpsed Into The Corridors of Power,” personally autographed for me at the Dawn’s books and authors pavilion at the convention centre Islamabad , a publication of the Oxford University Press.
A man of urbane sophistication, Gohar Ayub Khan continued his father’s political legacy and upheld his family’s honorable reputation. Despite negative perceptions propagated by critics, he, along with his son Omar Ayub Khan, faced the challenges head-on, refusing to be defined solely by being the offspring of Pakistan’s once most powerful military figure, Field Marshal Muhammad Ayub Khan. The father – son duo successfully redefined their democratic credentials with overwhelming support of their constituents in successive elections. .
Though the democratic leadership of the time labeled Field Marshal Ayub Khan a dictator , none could conclusively prove any character flaws or moral lapses against him . Following the rejection of American airbases and amidst a Western-sponsored anti-Ayub agitation, he gracefully relinquished his position, paving the way for the democratic process to follow that unfortunately ended into worst political debacle, the blame for which conclusively fell on the shoulders of the then politicians who refused to accept the majority mandate of the then East Pakistan and the subsequent military intervention against the people’s wishes was the last nail into the coffin of East Pakistan, a history that is once again being repeated with no lessons learnt from the past.
Subsequently, all the power hungry political leadership often proved to be more detrimental than the military dictators they criticized. Bhutto marked the beginning of this trend declaring himself as the first civilian marshal administrator , which later deteriorated even further as subsequent stinkingly corrupt political leaders till date continue to abuse their authority to their personal advantage, not shying to piggyback the military to grab power by hook or crook that irreparably damaged the image of our beloved country as well as the armed forces.
From a young age, Gohar Ayub Khan exhibited independence, a trait that set him apart despite his father’s towering influence. His father’s desire for him to follow in his footsteps as a professional soldier did not resonate with Gohar, who ultimately established himself as a successful entrepreneur and politician. He served Pakistan commendably in various significant political roles, including Foreign Minister, Speaker of the National Assembly, and Federal Minister of Water and Power.
While the inevitability of death is undeniable, one solace lies in being surrounded by obedient and loving children. In this regard, Gohar Ayub Khan was fortunate. He spent his final moments in the constant company of his three daughters and son, a privilege not afforded to many parents in their old age. As the angel of death ushered him away, he left behind a legacy of love and familial bond, leaving his affectionate family to grieve the loss of a caring father, brother, uncle, friend, and ardent Pakistani. The strong connection that he and his family maintained with their roots and their country has earned them the endearment and respect of both the local community as well as their countrymen
May he rest in peace, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that will live on to inspire and resonate with all who remember. To my family whose familial ties go back with their family to early 20th century, when late Gohar Ayub Khan, was himself a child and had fond childhood memories of my grandfather and his affection for them. The affection the family cherished and befittingly returned when my grandfather Prince Sardar Abdur Rehman Khan, migrated from Srinagar Kashmir to Pakistan post – partition .
His Namaz Janaza will be offered on Saturday 18th November 2023 at 3.00 pm in his ancestral village of Rehana, District Haripur KP and, he will be laid next to his illustrious father ( May both their souls rest in eternal peace). Ameen.