Veteran ANP Leader Ilyas Ahmed Bilour Passes Away at 84

Senior Awami National Party (ANP) leader and former senator Ilyas Ahmed Bilour passed away early Saturday morning at the age of 84. He was undergoing treatment for kidney-related ailments at a private hospital in Peshawar for several months. His funeral prayers will take place tomorrow at 2 PM at Wazir Bagh, Peshawar, as confirmed by ANP leader Samar Haroon Bilour.

Born on July 1, 1940, Ilyas Ahmed Bilour was a prominent figure in ANP, known for his adherence to Bacha Khan’s political ideology and his commitment to democratic values. He represented the ANP in the Senate in 2012 and endured hardships, including imprisonment, while championing the party’s principles.

Part of the renowned Bilour political family, he was the brother of senior ANP leader Ghulam Ahmad Bilour and the late Bashir Ahmad Bilour. Despite his extensive contributions, his active political involvement lessened after his son Ghazanfar Bilour joined the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

Political leaders nationwide, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressed condolences over his demise. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted his contributions, stating, “Ilyas Ahmed Bilour has unforgettable services for the welfare of the people. His absence creates a void that will be hard to fill.”