KARACHI: World leaders, social activists and artists sent condolence messages over the death of revered social activist Abdul Sattar Edhi who passed away after protracted illness at the age of 88.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif who is on his way to Pakistan from London expressed grief at the news. “He saved hundredes of lives through his humanitarian efforts and was a true asset to the country,” he said.

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sahrif expressed his grief at the death. “The nation has lost a great man today, he was truly a generous human being,” said the COAS. He wished for strength for Edhi’s family to cope with the irreplaceable loss.

The Inter-service Public Relation said that Edhi will be awarded with a guard of honour.

President Mamnoon Hussain offered his condolences at Edhi’s demise. “His efforts will always be remembered,” he said.

“Edhi’s contribution to social welfare is irreplaceable,” added the president.

Opposition leader Imran Khan took to Twitter to express his grief , “Truly saddened to hear of Edhi Sahab's passing. He was a noble soul & a great Pakistani. He gave the first big donation to SKMT 26 years ago,” Khan tweeted.

“There is so much we can all learn from you- we have lost our nation’s greatest humanitarian #Edhi #Pakistan,” tweeted Pakistan’s Oscar winner Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousufzai said, “Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away but his legacy of serving humanity will never die. Edhi changed lives and made history. Let’s remember his legacy and honour him by continuing his mission.”

India’s minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj tweeted, “I express my deep sense of grief on the demise of Abdul Sattar #EdhiSahab. He was a noble soul who dedicated his life in service of mankind.”

Indian journalist and columnist Burkha Dutt also took the micro-blogging website to speak about the late humanitarian. “#EdhiSahab - reminder in an age of evil and violence and trauma and terror that goodness exists. Transcends nations.”

Renowned playwright Anwar Maqsood said, “Edhi Sahab lit up this city.”

The renowned humanitarian, who was the founder and chairman of the Edhi Foundation, was diagnosed with kidney failure three years ago but was unable to receive a transplant due to his poor health.

His son Faisal Edhi confirmed his death on Friday.