Rahim Al-Hussaini designated as Aga Khan V

Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini has been named the new Aga Khan, becoming the spiritual leader of millions of Shia Ismaili Muslims worldwide. 

Designated as Aga Khan V, the 50th hereditary imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, Prince Rahim was appointed in his late father's will following the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV on Tuesday in Portugal.

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the Ismaili religious community announced that Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who served as the 49th hereditary imam, died peacefully surrounded by his family. Known for his deep commitment to fostering connections between Muslim societies and the West, Aga Khan IV was celebrated as a defender of Islamic culture and values. His legacy includes promoting development initiatives through AKDN, which focuses on healthcare, education, housing, and rural economic growth across over 30 countries, with an annual budget of approximately $1 billion USD for non-profit activities.

Aga Khan IV held the title of "His Highness," bestowed upon him by Queen Elizabeth II in July 1957, shortly after he was unexpectedly chosen by his grandfather, Aga Khan III, to lead the Ismaili Muslim sect—a dynasty spanning 1,300 years. Under his leadership, the global Ismaili community thrived, maintaining strong ties with nations such as Canada, where many Ismailis have settled.

Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini, born in October 1971, is the eldest son of Aga Khan IV from his first marriage. He is just over a year younger than his sister Zahra and has another brother, Hussain, born in 1974. Additionally, Aga Khan IV had a younger son, Aly Muhammad, born in 2000 from his second marriage.

As the designated successor, Prince Rahim inherits not only the spiritual mantle but also the responsibilities of guiding one of the world's most prominent Muslim communities. Ismailis, who traditionally tithe up to 12.5 per cent of their income to support communal welfare under the guidance of the Aga Khan, reside globally, including in Iran, Syria, South Asia, East Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Australia.

Burial arrangements and the reading of the will are scheduled to take place in the coming days, followed by an homage ceremony honouring the life and contributions of Aga Khan IV. This transition marks a significant moment for the Ismaili community as they welcome their new leader while mourning the loss of a revered figure.

Meanwhile, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV's visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to people's well-being has been exemplary.

"Over the decades, I had regarded him for his dedication to champion empathy, harmony, pluralism," Dr Yunus said in a condolence message sent to Prince Rahim Aga Khan V who was named 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims on February 5.

The Chief Adviser extended, on behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh, heartfelt condolences on the passing of the Aga Khan IV.

"With great fondness and reverence, I recall my conversations with him and his ideas to uplift livelihoods of communities in diverse parts of the world. I shall cherish my friendship with Aga Khan IV," Dr Yunus said, adding that he had the distinct honour to work with him on the board of his foundation, and had many occasions to visit with him and also have many discussion on issues of common concern and interest at many board meetings and conferences.