Umar Khan Afridi, father of the recently appointed Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, was a prominent figure who served as the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for three years. During his training at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), he earned the prestigious Sword of Honour and the Norman Gold Medal.
Born in 1934 in London, Umar Khan Afridi hailed from the Adam Khel Afridi tribe of FR Kohat. He began his early education at Presentation Convent in Murree and later attended Bishop Cotton School in Shimla, Karachi Grammar School, and Victoria College in Alexandria, Egypt.
Afridi joined the Pakistan Military Academy and graduated with the 9th PMA course in March 1954, excelling in his training by receiving both the Sword of Honour and the Norman Gold Medal. He retired from the military as a captain and transitioned to Pakistan’s civil service in 1960.
Throughout his illustrious career in civil administration, Umar Khan Afridi held several key positions. He served as the Political Agent of South Waziristan, Deputy Commissioner of Mardan, Secretary of Home and Tribal Affairs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Additional Chief Secretary, and Commissioner of Lahore. He also worked as the Administrator of Islamabad and served as Secretary to the President of Pakistan. Additionally, Afridi briefly held the office of an interim federal minister.
Umar Khan Afridi’s career stands out as a testament to his exceptional dedication and professional achievements, leaving a lasting legacy in both civil and military services.
