Qatar Mourns Loss of Former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who previously served as the leader of Qatar, has passed away at the age of 74, as announced by the Qatari government on Sunday. A statement from the Emir's Bureau conveyed profound sorrow, describing the passing as a significant national loss. Sheikh Hamad is widely recognized for his pivotal role in shaping modern Qatar, steering its economic transformation into a globally influential and affluent nation, largely attributed to its substantial natural gas reserves.
His tenure, however, was not without its share of controversies, notably surrounding Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup in 2010.
National Observances and International Tributes
Following his passing, funeral prayers are scheduled for Sunday evening, marking the commencement of several days of public mourning across Qatar. During this period, national flags will be lowered to half-mast, and government offices and public institutions will observe closures as a sign of respect.
International condolences and tributes have been extended from various dignitaries. King Charles and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom expressed their admiration, acknowledging Sheikh Hamad's 'many years of distinguished service to Qatar.' They further remarked that 'His leadership, vision and commitment to the welfare of the Qatari people were widely admired, both within Qatar and around the world.'
India also declared a day of national mourning, during which all entertainment events were canceled. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi remembered Sheikh Hamad as 'A visionary leader who led Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity,' and 'a true friend whom I had the honour of meeting during my last visit to Qatar in February 2024.'
A Legacy of Economic Transformation
Sheikh Hamad assumed power 31 years ago through a bloodless coup in June 1995, while his father, Sheikh Khalifa, was abroad. At that time, Qatar faced financial challenges due to diminishing oil reserves. His leadership fundamentally altered the nation's trajectory, transforming it into a major producer and exporter of liquefied natural gas. This economic ascendancy was facilitated by strategic international partnerships and investments forged under his guidance.
Under his reign, Qatar also saw the establishment of Al Jazeera in 1996, which quickly grew into a prominent international broadcasting network. Furthermore, Sheikh Hamad founded the Qatar Investment Authority, a sovereign wealth fund that made significant investments in global enterprises, including luxury department store Harrods and French football club Paris Saint-Germain.
The World Cup and Associated Challenges
One of the most prominent, albeit controversial, achievements during his time was Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup in 2010. Despite initial allegations of corruption surrounding the bid, Qatar was subsequently cleared. The preparations for the event necessitated the employment of approximately 30,000 foreign laborers for stadium construction.
However, the project faced considerable scrutiny regarding worker welfare. Reports in 2021 indicated that around 6,500 migrant workers from various South Asian countries, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, had died since Qatar secured the World Cup bid. The Qatari government responded by stating that not all reported deaths were directly linked to World Cup-related construction projects, and many individuals had resided in the country for extended periods.
Additionally, Qatar's human rights record and its laws pertaining to same-sex relationships drew criticism from international observers and organizations.
Voluntary Abdication and Succession
In 2013, Sheikh Hamad made the decision to voluntarily abdicate, ceding power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. This transition marked a rare instance of a Gulf monarch stepping down willingly.
Qatar, a former British protectorate until 1971, has been governed by the Al Thani family since 1851, maintaining a continuous monarchical tradition.
Source: Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies aged 74
