MARDAN: Speakers at a condolence reference here on Monday paid tribute to ANP leader Azam Khan Hoti and declared his death a great loss for Pakhtun nation.

The event was attended by ANP provincial president Ameer Haider Khan Hoti, MPAs Ahmad Khan Bahadar and Syed Gohar Bacha, party district president Himayatullah Mayar, general secretary Latifur Rehman and activists.

Azam Hoti passed away on April 15, 2015 after protracted illness.

Ameer Haider said Azam Hoti was a veteran and foresighted politicalleader and that such leaders were born once in hundred years.

He said Azam Hoti`s death had deprived the Pakhtun nation of a great nationalist leader, who rendered great sacriHces for the rights and welfare of Pakhtun nation.

`Azam Khan Hoti was not only my father but he was also his teacher, who taught me politics and trained me politically. The credit for my successful political career, including five years as the chief minister of the province, goes to him,` he said.

The ANP leader said he had no intention to be a politician but it was his father, who encourage d him to enter politics.

Other speakers highlighted different aspects of the personal and political life of Azam Hoti and said the deceased bravely fought war against terrorists and militants and never bowed before them.

They said Azam Hoti didn`t leave the field open for terrorists and militants despite re ceiving several life threats from them and continued with his political struggle.

The speakers said Azam Hoti gave respect to ANP workers and persuaded major Pakhtun personalities and families to join the party.

They said they would spread the message and philosophy of the deceased across the province and would follow in his footsteps to strengthen the party.Correspondent