Rahim Al-Hussaini Named Aga Khan V, New Spiritual Leader of Ismaili

Report By Syed Farzand Ali

Rahim Al-Hussaini has been officially named the Aga Khan V, the new spiritual leader of the global Ismaili community, following the passing of his father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV. The announcement was made on Wednesday after it was revealed that the late Aga Khan had designated his eldest son as his successor in his will.

The 53-year-old leader now assumes the role of the 50th hereditary imam of the Ismailis, he is regarded with both spiritual and administrative authority over millions of followers worldwide.

Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, who led the Ismaili community for over six decades, passed away in Portugal on Tuesday. His leadership was marked by significant philanthropic and humanitarian contributions through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which he founded to improve global health care, education, and economic development.

Prince Rahim, educated at Brown University in the United States with a degree in comparative literature, has been actively involved in the AKDN for many years. He has served on the boards of various agencies within the network, focusing on sustainable development, economic growth, and cultural preservation.

The AKDN, one of the world’s largest private development organizations, operates in over 30 countries and allocates approximately $1 billion annually to nonprofit initiatives. It has played a critical role in promoting social welfare, particularly in underdeveloped regions.

As the new Aga Khan, Prince Rahim is expected to continue his father’s legacy of humanitarianism while guiding the Ismaili community through contemporary global challenges. His leadership will likely shape the future of the Ismaili faith and its development initiatives for years to come.