Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 before handing over power to his son, died at the age of 74. His death was announced in an official statement released on Sunday.
In its message of condolence, AFC/M23 conveyed sympathy to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Qatari royal family, the government, and the people of Qatar following the passing of the former Emir.
'His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will be remembered as an exceptional statesman and visionary who, through his leadership, transformed Qatar into a respected global actor committed to peace, dialogue, development, and international cooperation,' the statement read.
AFC/M23 said the legacy of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani would continue to inspire future generations in Qatar and far beyond
The movement added that, as one of the parties involved in the mediation talks facilitated by Qatar between AFC/M23 and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), it had witnessed Qatar's commitment to encouraging dialogue, peaceful conflict resolution, and efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability.
'These efforts reflect the values and vision that His Highness the Father Amir helped to establish and promote,' AFC/M23 added.
As Qatar continues to mourn the former Emir, AFC/M23 said it stands in solidarity with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the royal family, the government, and citizens of Qatar during this period of loss.
Since early 2025, Qatar has been leading mediation efforts aimed at facilitating dialogue between the Democratic Republic of Congo and AFC/M23 in an effort to find a peaceful solution to the conflict in eastern DRC.
AFC/M23 has accused the Congolese government of repeatedly failing to respect commitments made during the negotiations, while alleging that violence and human rights abuses have continued, particularly affecting communities of Congolese Tutsi origin.
