Aga Khan, leader of millions of Ismaili Muslims, dies at 88
It said a designated successor will be announced "in coming days."
His Highness the Aga Khan, the founder of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the 49th hereditary spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, has died aged 88.
Aga Khan Foundation said the Aga Khan, or Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, died in Lisbon, Portugal, on Tuesday, February 4, surrounded by his family.
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"His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family," the foundation said on social media.
His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family. Prince Karim Aga Khan… pic.twitter.com/bxOyR0TyZr
— Aga Khan Development Network (@akdn) February 4, 2025
"Leaders and staff of the Aga Khan Development Network offer our condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide," read the statement from the network.
It said a designated successor will be announced "in coming days."
The successor will be chosen from among his male progeny or other relatives, according to the Ismaili community’s website.
Present in multiple countries, notably in central and southern Asia, Africa and the Middle East, the Ismaili community numbers 12 to 15 million, according to its website.
United Nations chief Antonio Guterres described the Aga Khan as "a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world" following the religious leader's death.
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