Former SBP Governor Shamshad Akhtar dies at 71, marking a sad day for Pakistan’s financial sector and national leadership. She suffered a cardiac arrest, according to an ARY News report from Karachi news today. Her passing has triggered a national mourning reaction because she shaped Pakistan’s banking history with vision and integrity.
Dr Shamshad Akhtar was born in Hyderabad, Sindh, in 1954, and she later emerged as a respected Pakistani economist. She served as the 14th Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan and became the first woman to serve as SBP governor. Her leadership at the Pakistan central bank focused on stability, transparency, and long-term reforms.
Beyond the SBP, the SBP’s former chief also served as Pakistan’s finance minister in a caretaker role. She held two caretaker tenures, from June to August 2018 and again during the 2023 to 2024 tenure. These periods were critical, so her calm approach supported economic governance in Pakistan.
Dr Shamshad Akhtar also showed the strong corporate sector leadership Pakistan needed. She worked as the Pakistan Stock Exchange chairperson and led Sui Southern Gas Company. These roles strengthened governance standards and investor confidence across major institutions.
According to the Election Commission of Pakistan records, she declared net assets of Rs2.94 billion before joining the caretaker cabinet in 2023. Her transparency added credibility to public office and financial management practices.
President Asif Ali Zardari issued a condolence message and paid tributes to the economic services she rendered. He praised her contributions to financial management and Pakistan’s economic reforms. Messages of bereaved family condolences and public respect continue nationwide.
Former SBP Governor Shamshad Akhtar dies at 71, but her legacy in Pakistan’s economic policy leadership will endure. Her work will guide future reforms and inspire women leaders.
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Former SBP Governor Shamshad Akhtar dies at 71, leaving a lasting legacy in Pakistan’s financial sector and economic governance leadership.
