Ahmed Patel’s commitment to his duty were rare qualities that distinguished him from others: Sonia Gandhi
Highlight
- Ahmed Patel served as Sonia Gandhi’s political secretary for years.
- “His faithfulness set him apart from the rest,” said Sonia Gandhi.
- In his tribute, Rahul Gandhi described him as a pillar of the Congress party.
New Delhi:
Congress President Sonia Gandhi, mourning the death of Ahmed Patel, one of her closest associates, said she had lost an “irreplaceable companion, a faithful colleague and a friend.” The 71-year-old congressional veteran died this morning, weeks after hiring Covid.
“In Ahmed Patel, I have lost a colleague whose entire life was dedicated to the Congress Party. His faithfulness and dedication, his commitment to his duty, his always being there to help, his generosity were rare qualities that distinguished him from others.” . Sonia Gandhi wrote.
“I have lost an irreplaceable companion, a faithful colleague and a friend. I am sorry for his passing and I am deeply sorry for his heartbroken family to whom I offer my sincere feelings of empathy and support.”
Ahmed Patel served as Sonia Gandhi’s political secretary for years and was believed to be part of all the key decisions she made.
The Rajya Sabha member of Gujarat was close to the Nehru-Gandhi family and also advised former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. As the leader of the Youth Congress, he was chosen at age 28 by Indira Gandhi to participate in the Lok Sabha elections in 1977 from Bharuch in Gujarat.
Ahmed Patel refused to join the government, preferring to remain behind the scenes, advising Sonia Gandhi on alliances, political strategy and partisan crises.
In his tribute, Rahul Gandhi described him as a pillar of the Congress party, saying: “Congress lived and breathed and was with the party in its most difficult moments. He was a tremendous asset. We will miss him. My love and condolences to Faisal, Mumtaz and the family “.
Several congressional leaders expressed pain and shock.
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