ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Siddiqul Farooq passed away on Sunday after protracted illness. He was suffering from kidney-related complications and renal failure was the cause of the death. His funeral prayers will be offered in H-11 graveyard in Islamabad on Monday (today) and burial will also take place in the same graveyard. The deceased’s brother Azhar Malik, while talking to Dawn, said 78-year-old Siddiqul Farooq remained the press secretary to the prime minister during the first tenure of Nawaz Sharif. “Later, my brother was appointed chairman of House Building Finance Corporation. During the second tenure of Nawaz Sharif, he was appointed the chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) with the status of minister of state,” he added. He said that the deceased is survived by a widow, two sons and two daughters to mourn his death. Meanwhile, a number of politicians, journalists and people belonging to various walks of life have condoled the death of the veteran politician who earned respect and repute in all circles. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also expressed his deep sorrow over the sad demise of Siddiqul Farooq. “The party has lost a sincere and astute politician. His services to the PML-N will always be remembered,” the prime minister stated. Party’s parliamentary leader in the Senate Irfan Siddiqui, in his comments, said the deceased was a courageous and committed person. “He bravely fought against dictatorship and refused to turn against Nawaz Sharif, even in the most difficult circumstances,” he added. “His passing is a tremendous loss to journalism, politics and integrity. His sacrifices and contributions to democracy and the PML-N will never be forgotten. Even when I visited him just days before his death, his words were filled with deep concern for Pakistan, affection for Nawaz Sharif and unwavering support for the Muslim League Nawaz,” he said. Irfan Siddiqui had visited the residence of Siddiqul Farooq a couple of days ago and offered full support.