KABUL - The death of First Vice President Marshal Mohammad Qasim Fahim will create a political imbalance in Afghanistan, the head of the Jamiat-e-Islami Party (JIP) (Islamic Society Party) said on Monday.

Marshal Fahim died on Sunday of a heart attack at his home. The Tajik leader and former commander of the Northern Alliance had served as First Vice President since 2009.

Since Sunday, political commentators have urged the Afghan government to seek an appropriate successor to try to fill Marshal Fahim's shoes quickly.

"The presence of Marshal Fahim was significant both for Jamiat-e-Islami and the government, his death will bring a political vacuum," said Abdul Sattar Murad, the political chief of Jamiat-e-Islami.

Afghan analysts say Marshal Fahim played a crucial role in mobilising and reintegrating former Jihadi figures into the modern Afghan political system.

"Based on Article 68 of the Constitution, when of a Vice President dies or resigns, the President refers the name of another person to the National Assembly," said Waqef Hakimi, a political analyst.

Marshal Fahim was one of the most outspoken proponents of ensuring free, fair and transparent elections.

The government has called for three days of national mourning in honor of Fahim and the Afghan flag will be raised at half-staff. A commission has been formed to prepare the state funeral proceedings.

Fahim's body will be transported from Sardar Mohammad Dawoud Khan's Military Hospital to the Ministry of Defense and then he will be laid to rest in Badam Bagh Hill in Kabul on Tuesday.

All provinces have been asked to organize prayer ceremonies for Fahim on Tuesday. (Tolonews)