Pakistan's first president was Iskander Mirza. He served as the country's first head of state from 1956 to 1958.
Mirza played a significant role in the transition of Pakistan from a dominion to a republic. He was a prominent figure in the Muslim League, which advocated for the creation of Pakistan.
Here are some key facts about Iskander Mirza:
- He was born in 1899 in India and studied law at the University of Calcutta.
- He joined the Indian Civil Service and served in various administrative roles.
- He became a close confidante of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.
- After Pakistan's independence in 1947, Mirza served as the country's first governor-general.
- He was elected as the first president of Pakistan in 1956.
- However, his presidency was short-lived. He was overthrown in a military coup led by General Ayub Khan in 1958.
Mirza's presidency was marked by political instability and economic challenges. He faced opposition from the political parties and struggled to establish a stable government. His decision to dissolve the National Assembly and impose martial law led to his downfall.
While his presidency was brief and controversial, Iskander Mirza remains a significant figure in Pakistan's history. He was a key player in the country's early years and played a role in shaping its political landscape.