The Communist Party of the Philippines extended its condolences to the proletariat and people of Afghanistan over the death of Comrade Zia, chairman of the Communist (Maoist) Party of Afghanistan (CMPA). He was 68.

Comrade Zia played a key role in resisting the American-led imperialist invasion and occupation of Afghanistan in 2001. After three years, he organized the Unity Congress which united three Maoist movements in Afghanistan and led to the founding of the CMPA. Comrade Zia was twice unanimously elected as its chairperson.

For nearly two decades, Comrade Zia helped shape and sharpen the ideological and political line of the CMPA. He has written hundreds of revolutionary and theoretical articles on various issues facing the CMPA and the international communist movement.