Ruto Mourns Qatar’s Former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

President William Ruto has sent his condolences to the Government and people of Qatar following the death of the former Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

In a statement dated July 14, Ruto expressed sympathy to Qatar’s ruling family, describing the late Amir as a visionary leader whose leadership transformed the Gulf nation.

“It is with profound 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 stated.

Ruto Pays Tribute to Qatar’s Former Amir

He further praised the late Sheikh Hamad’s leadership, saying he guided Qatar through a remarkable period of development and prosperity while laying the foundations for the country’s modern growth.

According to Ruto, the former Amir will be remembered for his vision and commitment to national progress.

“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. 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. 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.”

His condolence messages come hours after former President Uhuru Kenyatta joined leaders across the world in mourning the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

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In a statement issued on Monday, July 13, 2026, Uhuru Kenyatta extended his condolences to Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Royal Family and the people of Qatar following the death of the Father Emir.

He described the late leader as a visionary statesman who transformed Qatar into a modern, prosperous nation and championed education, diplomacy, and sustainable development.

Uhuru also recognised Sheikh Hamad’s contribution to strengthening relations between Kenya and Qatar, adding that the former Amir remained committed to international partnerships and played a key role in fostering friendship between the two countries.

Leadership of Sheikh Hamad

Sheikh Hamad became the ruler of Qatar in June 1995 after taking power from his father in a bloodless coup.

During his time in office, Qatar experienced major economic growth driven by its large natural gas reserves, allowing the country to become one of the world’s wealthiest nations and expand its influence in regional and international affairs.

Sheikh Hamad’s leadership also saw Qatar increase its role in diplomacy, investment, and global affairs while developing infrastructure and institutions that transformed the country’s economy.

Additionally, the former Amir attracted international attention over issues including Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which followed the country’s winning bid in 2010.

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In 2013, Sheikh Hamad stepped down from power and transferred authority to his son and heir apparent, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who was then 33 years old.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was laid to rest in Doha after a funeral held at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque following the evening prayer.

His death was announced earlier on Sunday, bringing to an end the life of the man widely credited with reshaping Qatar over nearly two decades in power before handing leadership to his son.

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