Veteran journalist and author Khaled Ahmed passes away at 81

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 18 November 2024 |  JP Staff Report

Khaled Ahmed, a prominent journalist and author, has died at the age of 81. His contributions to journalism spanned over four decades, shaping national discourse.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—Renowned journalist and author Khaled Ahmed passed away on Sunday at the age of 81 after suffering a heart attack at his residence in Zaman Park, Lahore. His death marks the loss of one of Pakistan's most respected voices in journalism.

With a career spanning over four decades, Khaled Ahmed worked for some of Pakistan's most prominent publications, including The Pakistan Times, The Nation, The Frontier Post, The Friday Times, and Daily Times. His career, which began in the foreign service, saw him shape discussions on vital national issues and become a guiding figure in the media landscape.

Born in 1943 in Jalandhar, India, Khaled Ahmed completed his education at Government College Lahore in 1965 and later earned an MA (Honours) from Punjab University. He had a deep understanding of the political and ideological history of Pakistan, which he explored in his many books, including Word for Word: Stories Behind Everyday Words We Use, Sectarian War: Sunni-Shia Conflict in Pakistan, Pakistan's Terror Conundrum, Pakistan: The State in Crisis, and Pakistan: Behind the Ideological Mask (Facts Behind the Great Men We Don’t Want to Know).

Ahmed also served as the consulting editor of Newsweek's Lahore-based edition at the time of his passing. His insightful writing, vast knowledge, and ability to communicate complex issues earned him admiration among his peers and readers.

Khaled Ahmed leaves behind a legacy of thought-provoking journalism, a lasting impact on media in Pakistan, and a wealth of books that continue to educate future generations.

Photo: thefridaytimes.com

KEY POINTS:

• Khaled Ahmed passed away after a heart attack at his home in Lahore.
• He had a distinguished career in journalism lasting over 40 years.
• Ahmed authored several influential books on Pakistan's political and ideological history.
• He served as the consulting editor for Newsweek's Lahore edition.
• His insightful writing earned him admiration among peers and readers alike.