Thousands of people yesterday posted notes of thanks to H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani on social media for his visionary leadership that transformed Qatar from a small Gulf state into one of the world’s richest countries.
Many also congratulated the new Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, welcoming the transfer of power that now lies in the hands of the youngest ruler in the region.
Some on social networking sites also said they were anticipating a hike in salaries or social benefits with the new Emir taking charge of the country.
Youngsters, many of whom grew up in Qatar during Sheikh Hamad’s 18-year reign, said landmark development projects were initiated under his leadership.
They said transferring power to the 33-year-old son showed that Sheikh Hamad did not desire power and that he had Qatar’s best interests in mind.
“What Sheikh Hamad has done is in the best interests of Qatar and its people,” one comment posted on Facebook said.
The youngest ruler in the Gulf after Sheikh Tamim now is the 63-year-old King of Bahrain, H M Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Many said that handing over power to Sheikh Tamim showed the trust and faith Sheikh Hamad had in the younger generation.
“I consider it to be a lesson for all the kings of the Arab world,” said one commentator.
‘ThankYouHamad’ was trending on Twitter as it became the most frequently used word, with people paying tributes to Sheikh Hamad.
Many women also praised Sheikh Hamad for his progressive stance on empowerment of women in the country.
“ThankYouHamad for being the supporter of Qatar and for giving equal access to women in the workforce and having faith in us,” one comment posted on Twitter said.
“We will miss Sheikh Hamad, one of the greatest leaders in the Arab world,” said another.
http://thepeninsulaqatar.com/qatar/242811-we-will-miss-you-sheikh-hamad.html
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