Tributes flow for prominent Somalia minister after sudden death

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A popular member of Somalia's cabinet has died in Djibouti after a short illness, the government announced on Wednesday, terming the sudden demise as a "huge loss" to her family and the entire nation given her distinguished service to the people.

Khadija Mohamed Diriye, the minister for Women and Human Rights Development passed on in a Djibouti hospital, triggering tributes from Somalis from all walks of life and members of the international community.

Abdirahman Yusuf Al-Adala, the country's deputy minister for information, said the minister died after a short illness in a Djibouti hospital where she had been admitted, after an urgent medical emergency.

She underwent surgery, he said, adding that "unfortunately, she did not wake up from the coma". At the time of death, he said, she was attending the annual Heritage meeting in Djibouti in the company of some dignitaries including Prime Minister Hamza Barre.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud led the country on the morning of her death, terming her as a diligent officer who worked hard to ensure the collective vision of his government was implemented.

"President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and Somali people on the shocking death of Khadija Mohamed Diriye, who passed away in Djibouti on Wednesday," state media reports.

"The veteran MP and Minister had been in politics since 2000 and held various ministerial positions,"

"The Delegation of the European Union wishes to express its deep sorrow and conveys its heartfelt condolences on the passing away of Hon. Khadija Mohamed Diriye, Minister of Women and Human Rights Development Somalia. Our thoughts and hearts are with her family,"

The government is planning funeral arrangements for the deceased minister who is likely to be buried soonest based on Islamic practice. Several other members of the cabinet and senior government officials have paid their tributes.

GAROWE ONLINE