Geo and Jang Group President Imran Aslam passes away

• Aslam's son says his father's funeral prayers will be offered at 4pm Saturday.
• Aslam, who was a giant of journalism, was unwell for some time and undergoing treatment at a local hospital.
• Under Aslam's leadership of Geo News, Geo Entertainment and Geo Super.

President of Geo and Jang Group Imran Aslam passed away at the age of 70, Geo News reported Friday. 

Aslam, who was a giant of journalism, was unwell for some time and undergoing treatment at a local hospital. 

He was born in Madras, India in 1951. He studied in London in the 70s and had a great career in journalism. 

Geo News, Geo Entertainment and Geo Super were launched under his leadership. He was also the founding member of the English-language newspaper The News. 

The journalist was also the chief news editor and senior editor of The News. He also had a career in script writing and wrote over 60 dramas that were displayed on stage and television. 

Riaz Aslam, who is the brother of the journalist, said their sister and Aslam's son will arrive from London. 

Imran Aslam's son Taimur said his father's funeral prayers will be offered at 4pm on Saturday at his residence and the burial will take place at a graveyard in DHA, Phase 8.

Condolences pour in

As soon as news of the death broke, people from all walks of life condoled Aslam's death.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief and sorrow over the death of President of Jang and Geo group Imran Aslam.

In a statement on Friday, the premier said Imran Aslam had an eminent place in journalistic community. He said Imran Aslam's services for development of media will always be remembered.

President Dr Arif Alvi also offered his condolences on Aslam's demise. 

In a statement issued on Twitter, President Alvi said: "I offer condolence on death of a dear friend & an outstanding journalist Mr Imran Aslam. A thorough gentleman & a person who had a deep understanding of issues."

"May his soul rest in peace & may Allah provide strength to family & friends to bear this loss," he added. 

Meanwhile, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb also expressed condolences on the death.

In her message, she said that Aslam had a brilliant journalistic career and his journalistic services will always be remembered.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also expressed his condolences over Aslam's demise.

"Imran Aslam's services in journalism and literature will always be remembered," said the Sindh CM.

JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman also expressed sadness over Aslam's death. 

"I am deeply saddened by the death of president of Geo and Jang Group," said Fazl, adding that his journalistic services will be remembered," he added.

Note: Updated with Imran Aslam's correct year of birth, 1951, not 1952 as erroneously written earlier.