Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar went on state television on Tuesday to announce his abdication. In a seven-minute speech, the Emir confirmed the transfer of power to his son, the Crown Prince, and gave his people assurances of the younger Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani‘s ability to rule. He also called on his subjects to give the new leader of the world’s richest country per capita their full support. The Emir declared that it is time for the next generation to rule.
A peaceful transition
This peaceful transition came 18 years after Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, now 61 years old, overthrew his father. In 1995 when he was 43 years old, Sheikh Hamad took the reins of power from his father in a bloodless coup. At that time, Sheikh Hamad has the full support of the cabinet, the armed forces, and neighboring Gulf States.
Most of the rulers in the oil-rich gulf countries maintain their hold on the seat of power decade after decade until the time of death. This transition is considered a rare occurrence in the region. Sheikh Hamad met with relatives and advisers on Monday in Doha to discuss plans for his abdication.
Time to open a new page
In his address the Sheikh said that it is now time to “open a new page in the journey of our nation.” The outgoing Emir handed over the responsibilities to his fourth son whom he described as trustworthy and fully qualified for the responsibility. Sheikh Hamad did not specify when the change would take effect, but according to officials, the transfer of power is immediate. Sources say that the reason behind this move is the old Sheik’s ill health.
After the speech, Sheikh Hamad and Sheikh Tamim were shown at the royal court with well-wishers and supporters. Live television footage showed father and son wearing big smiles and accepting traditional embraces from Qatari elite and dignitaries.
William Hague, the Foreign Secretary of Britain posted a tweet in welcoming the new leader: “Historic day for Qatar as the new generation takes over.”
The “new generation”
Sheik Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the new Emir of Qatar is 33 years old and educated in Britain. Sheikh Tamim is the second son of Sheikh Hamad with his second wife. The rule of the new Emir marks the end of what many consider as an “extraordinary era” in the history of Qatar.
On Wednesday, the new Emir of Qatar is scheduled to deliver his first official speech to the nation. On that day, citizens of Qatar who wish to swear their allegiance to the new emir will also be received by father and son. Afterwards, the young ruler will choose the members of his government. A cabinet shake-up is expected with the anticipated appointment of younger ministers.
Qatar’s wealthy rulers
The Qatar sovereigns own a number of major investments in the United Kingdom. The Emir’s family owns Harrods and Christies. The family also gave funds for the building of the 72-storey Shard skyscraper in London.
Photo Credit: Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
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