The Ministries of Culture and Media mourn the passing of the esteemed writer and journalist Mahmoud Ali Al-Haj.
Ministry of Culture and Media Mourns the Loss of Esteemed Poet and Journalist Mahmoud Ali Al-Haj
The Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Media have expressed their deep sorrow over the passing of the distinguished poet, writer, and journalist Mahmoud Ali Al-Haj. He passed away on Friday after an extraordinary career that spanned over fifty years, during which he made significant contributions to Yemen’s cultural and media renaissance, shaping the thoughts and feelings of successive generations.
A Legacy of Cultural Contribution
In their official statement, the ministries proudly recalled the golden legacy of Al-Haj, who was born in 1949 in the Al-Maqatra district of Lahij Governorate. He grew up and received his education in Aden, which served as the launchpad for one of Yemen’s most notable cultural and media journeys.
Pioneer of Literary and Journalistic Movements
The statement highlighted Al-Haj’s role as a pioneer of the written word and an active founder of enlightening organizations. He played a crucial role in establishing the Yemeni Writers and Authors Union and the Yemeni Journalists Syndicate, contributing to the foundation of both union and creative work in the country.
A Distinguished Career in Journalism
Al-Haj began his professional journey in 1970 with the newspaper “14 October” in Aden. Throughout his career, he held several leadership positions, including:
- Editor-in-Chief of “Al-Jundi” newspaper
- Editor-in-Chief of the cultural magazine “New Yemen”
- Editor-in-Chief of the weekly newspaper “Al-Tasheet”
- Editor-in-Chief of the official newspaper “Al-Thawra”
- General Director of the “Saba News Agency” in 1979, and he returned to lead “New Yemen” magazine for a second time in 1982.
Contributions to Television and Music
His contributions extended beyond print journalism to include television, where he worked with Sana’a TV (Channel One). He hosted notable cultural and artistic programs, including “Ikleel,” which became a beacon for showcasing creative talents and documenting Yemen’s cultural movement. Additionally, Al-Haj was a sensitive lyricist, with his works celebrated by prominent artists, including Ahmed Fathi, leaving behind a timeless artistic and literary legacy.
A Great Loss for Yemen
The statement emphasized that Yemen has lost a rare creative force, an encyclopedic intellectual, and a noble human being known for his kindness and dedication to serving his country and community.
Condolences to Family and Friends
The ministries extended their heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy to Al-Haj’s family, friends, and admirers. They prayed for his eternal peace and for his family to find solace during this difficult time.
For more information, visit Yemen TV.
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