Tarek Fatah, the Pakistan-born author and prominent political commentator, has passed away at the age of 73. Fatah, who was born in Karachi, Pakistan, had been living in Toronto, Canada and had been ailing for some time.
The famous Pakistani columnist died after a long-drawn battle with cancer. His daughter Natasha Fatah confirmed. “Lion of Punjab. Son of Hindustan. Lover of Canada. Speaker of truth. Fighter for justice. Voice of the down-trodden, underdogs, and the oppressed. Tarek Fatah has passed the baton on… his revolution will continue with all who knew and loved him. Will you join us? 1949-2023,” Natasha tweeted.
Born on November 20, 1949, in Karachi, Pakistan, Tarek Fatah migrated to Canada in the early 1980s and worked as a journalist, political activist and television host. Fatah was known for his bold views on Islam and his strong stance on Pakistan.
Fatah was a vocal critic of Pakistan and the nation’s treatment of religious minorities, and his death has been met with an outpouring of grief from various noted celebrities. He was also an outspoken opponent of the idea of an Islamic State.
“Deeply saddened to know about the demise of my friend, a true Indian at heart, most fearless and kind hearted man @TarekFatah. His courage was infectious! His laughter was pure. We met at many occasions. But visiting his home in Toronto and spending an afternoon with him over some delicious food and amazing stories was so special. My condolences to his family and friends!” veteran actor Anupam Kher tweeted.