Amman: Deputizing for His Majesty King Abdullah II and HRH Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, Chief of the Royal Court Yousef Issawi took part in the funeral of former Prime Minister Ali Abu al-Ragheb, who passed away yesterday. Issawi conveyed the condolences of the King and Crown Prince to the family of the deceased, praying for mercy on the deceased, and strength and solace for his family and loved ones.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Royal Court head recalled the virtues and contributions of the deceased, describing his passing as a national loss. Abu al-Ragheb was recognized for his invaluable services to Jordan through various positions he held, where he served with integrity and responsibility, making a lasting impact on public service.
Abu al-Ragheb served as Prime Minister from 2000 to 2003, during which he formed three consecutive governments. His political career included holding ministerial portfolios such as Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply in 1991, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources from 1991 to 1993, and Minister of Industry and Trade from 1995 to 1997.
In addition to his ministerial roles, Abu al-Ragheb was a member of both the Senate and Lower House, head of the Contractors Association, and chairman of the committee responsible for establishing the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.
Born in Amman in 1946, Abu al-Ragheb earned his BSc in Civil Engineering from the University of Tennessee in 1967. His contributions to Jordan were recognized with prestigious awards, including the Order of the Star of Jordan (al-Kawkab), First Class, and the Order of the Renaissance, First Class.