By ABDULLAH 
Senior Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) leader and respected religious scholar Mufti Kifayatullah Swati has passed away after succumbing to injuries sustained in a tragic family shooting incident earlier this month.
According to police reports, the cleric was critically injured when his son allegedly opened fire at their residence in Batkhela, Malakand district. The incident claimed the lives of his daughter and another son, while his wife was also left seriously injured. Mufti Kifayatullah was initially treated at a hospital in Peshawar before being shifted to Islamabad for specialized care, where he breathed his last.
Born on August 5, 1963, Mufti Kifayatullah Swati earned his early religious education from local madrassas before pursuing advanced studies at prominent seminaries. Known for his outspoken personality, he rose through the ranks of JUI-F and became a close aide of party chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
- He served as district emir of JUI-F Malakand.
- Was elected as a Member of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly (2008–2013).
- Actively represented the Pashtun National Jirga (PNJ), mediating sectarian disputes. Notably, he led a delegation to Kurram district in December 2024 to help reduce tensions between Shia and Sunni communities.
During the PTI government, Mufti Kifayatullah became recognized as one of the strongest opposition voices, often openly criticizing state institutions. His speeches landed him in jail multiple times:
- In October 2019, he was arrested for “anti-state statements.”
- In April 2021, he was detained under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) before being released on bail.
Despite these controversies, he remained a respected figure in both political and religious circles.
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, calling Kifayatullah’s passing “a great loss to the party, religion, and politics.”
“Mufti Kifayatullah’s services for Islam and his dedication to the cause of democracy will always be remembered. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah and give patience to his bereaved family,” said Fazlur Rehman in a statement.
Political and religious leaders from across Pakistan have also paid tribute, highlighting his integrity, scholarship, and role as a mediator in conflict-prone regions. Social media platforms saw an outpouring of grief, with many recalling his fiery speeches and contributions to peace efforts.
Police confirmed that the assailant was none other than Mufti Kifayatullah’s son, who allegedly opened fire inside the family home. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though authorities are investigating domestic disputes as a possible trigger. The accused was arrested soon after the incident.
The tragedy has shocked Malakand and the wider religious community, raising questions about mental health, domestic violence, and security measures for high-profile personalities in Pakistan.
Following the news of his death, hashtags like #MuftiKifayatullah and #JUIF trended on X (formerly Twitter). Many users expressed condolences, while others reflected on his political journey:
- “He was a strong voice for his people, even if controversial at times. A big loss for JUI-F.” – Political analyst on X.
- “This tragedy shows how fragile life is. May Allah forgive him and bless the departed souls of his children as well.” – User comment on Facebook.
- “Pakistan has lost not just a politician but also a religious scholar who mediated conflicts with courage.” – Journalist’s post on Instagram.
Despite controversies, Mufti Kifayatullah leaves behind a legacy of:
- Religious scholarship – respected by madrassa circles.
- Political courage – openly opposing governments and policies he disagreed with.
- Conflict mediation – especially in Pashtun tribal areas.
His passing leaves a vacuum in both JUI-F leadership and in local politics of Malakand.
Who was Mufti Kifayatullah?
Mufti Kifayatullah Swati (1963–2025) was a senior JUI-F leader, Islamic scholar, former KP Assembly member (2008–2013), and member of the Pashtun National Jirga.
How did Mufti Kifayatullah die?
He succumbed to injuries after being shot by his son in a family dispute at their home in Batkhela, Malakand.
Was Mufti Kifayatullah controversial?
Yes. He was arrested multiple times for making “anti-state” speeches but was also respected for his mediation role in sectarian conflicts.
What was his role in politics?
He was a close aide to Maulana Fazlur Rehman, served as JUI-F Malakand emir, and was known as a strong opposition voice against the PTI government.
Is Mufti Kifayatullah related to Mufti clothing brand?
No. The late Mufti Kifayatullah has no connection with the Mufti clothing company, which is a separate global fashion brand.
The death of Mufti Kifayatullah marks the end of a chapter in Pakistan’s religious and political landscape. His life reflected both controversy and courage a man respected as a scholar, feared as an opponent, and valued as a mediator. The tragedy of his death at the hands of his own son adds a sorrowful dimension to his legacy, leaving Pakistanis reflecting not only on his contributions but also on the fragility of human life.