Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V has been named the 50th hereditary leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, following the passing of his father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, in Portugal on Tuesday.
The 53-year-old was designated as Aga Khan V in his late father’s will. Prince Karim Aga Khan IV led the Ismaili Muslim community for over 67 years before his passing.
As the new hereditary Imam, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V continues a lineage that Ismaili Muslims believe traces directly to Prophet Muhammad.
Who is Prince Rahim Aga Khan V?
Born on October 12, 1971, Prince Rahim was raised in Switzerland and educated in the United States. He is the eldest son of Aga Khan IV and his first wife, Princess Salimah, formerly British model Sarah Croker Poole.
Prince Rahim is married to former American fashion model Kendra Spears, with whom he has two sons.
Who Are the Ismailis?
The Ismailis are a sect of Shia Islam, tracing their lineage through a succession of Imams, including Imam Ismail, who passed away in AD 765.
With a global population of around 15 million, they have significant communities in Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and parts of Africa.
Prince Karim Aga Khan IV became Imam in 1957 at just 20 years old, inheriting a leadership tradition spanning over a thousand years. The title “Aga Khan,” meaning “commanding chief,” was first granted in the 1830s by the Persian emperor to Prince Karim’s great-great-grandfather.
Aga Khan V’s Role in Development and Climate Action
According to the Aga Khan Development Network, Prince Rahim has been actively involved in various boards and currently chairs its Environment and Climate Committee.
“Prince Rahim has been particularly concerned with the AKDN’s drive to protect the environment and mitigate the effects of climate change,” the organization stated, highlighting his focus on poverty alleviation and sustainable development.
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