Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al ThaniPresident William Ruto has conveyed Kenya's heartfelt condolences to the State of Qatar following the death of the country's former Emir and Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died at the age of 74.
In a message addressed to Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Ruto expressed sorrow over the passing of the former ruler, describing him as a visionary leader whose legacy transformed Qatar into a modern and globally influential nation.
"It is with sorrow that I extend my heartfelt condolences following the passing of His Highness the Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, father of His Highness The Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani," Ruto said.
"On my own behalf, and on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of Kenya, I convey my deepest sympathies to Your Highness, the Al Thani family, and the Government and people of the State of Qatar."
The President said Kenya stands in solidarity with the people of Qatar as they mourned a statesman whose leadership ushered in unprecedented development and prosperity.
"I join the people of Qatar in mourning the passing of a visionary leader who guided his nation through a remarkable period of progress and prosperity, laying the foundations of modern Qatar," Ruto said.
"I pray for the eternal repose of his soul, and for strength, comfort, and fortitude for Your Highness and the entire Qatari nation during this time of profound loss."
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, a period widely credited with transforming the Gulf nation into one of the world's wealthiest and most influential states. Under his leadership, Qatar experienced rapid economic growth driven by its vast natural gas reserves, becoming the world's leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
His administration also spearheaded sweeping reforms across the country's economic, social and cultural sectors while expanding Qatar's diplomatic footprint on the global stage. His foreign policy initiatives established the country as a respected player in international affairs and strengthened partnerships with nations across the world.
During his reign, Qatar adopted its first permanent constitution in 2004 and introduced municipal elections that allowed women to vote and contest elective positions, marking significant political reforms in the conservative Gulf state.
In 2013, Sheikh Hamad made history by voluntarily handing over power to his son and heir apparent, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in one of the rare peaceful abdications by a hereditary ruler in the Gulf region.
The Amiri Diwan announced the death of the Father Amir on Sunday, triggering a four-day period of national mourning. Government offices and public institutions have suspended work, while flags across the country have been lowered to half-mast in his honour.
Tributes have continued to pour in from leaders around the world, who have hailed Sheikh Hamad's transformative leadership and enduring legacy.
