Malik Mukhtar Ahmed Awan, a senior leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party and former federal minister, has died in Multan after a prolonged illness. He was 83. Awan was a founding figure of the PPP and its longtime face in Multan, having served as a minister in both the Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto governments. Main Developments Awan passed away on Tuesday in Multan following a lengthy illness. His funeral prayers are scheduled for 9am Wednesday at Abdali Mosque in Multan. Read also: 3 Key Drivers Behind Pakistan's 97% Blood Money Hike to Rs19.4 Million President Asif Ali Zardari expressed sorrow over the death, calling Awan a sincere, dignified, and loyal political worker whose public services would always be remembered. Background Awan was a close associate of PPP founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and served as a minister in Punjab during Bhutto's era. He was arrested under General Zia-ul-Haq's martial law, tortured with lashes, and remained imprisoned. He was also jailed during General Pervez Musharraf's martial law. After Bhutto's era, he served as a federal minister in Benazir Bhutto's 1988 government. Why It Matters Awan's death removes a veteran link to the PPP's founding generation and its struggles against military rule. His loyalty and endurance through multiple dictatorships made him a symbol of the party's resilience in southern Punjab. What's Next Funeral prayers will be held Wednesday morning in Multan, where party leaders and supporters are expected to gather. The PPP will likely plan a formal tribute or memorial session in coming days.