LISBON, PORTUGAL: Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V was named the 50th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, following the unsealing of the Will of his late father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, who died in Lisbon, Portugal, aged 88.
Throughout their 1,400 year history, the Ismailis have been led by a living, hereditary Imam. The Ismailis live in over 35 countries and number approximately 12 to 15 million.
Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V is the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, as designated by Mawlana Shah Karim in accordance with the historical Shia Imami Ismaili Muslim tradition and practice of nass.
The announcement was made in the presence of the Imam’s family and senior Jamati leaders, in Lisbon on 5 February 2025, following the reading of Mawlana Shah Karim’s Will.
Rahim Aga Khan will take on the role from his father Prince Karim Aga Khan, who died on February 4.
