Addis Ababa, October 20, 2025 (FMC) – The Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC), His Holiness Abune Mathias I, has expressed his condolences following the death of the former President of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, the late Grand Mufti Haji Oumer Idris.
The Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council announced that the Grand Mufti passed away last night, with his funeral expected to take place later today.
In his message of condolence, HH Abune Mathias I described the late Grand Mufti as one of Ethiopia’s revered elders, a mentor, and a beloved figure whose wisdom and dedication left a lasting imprint on the nation.
“God does not leave a country without a mentor or a people without a guiding memory in every era,” Abune Mathias said. “The late Grand Mufti was a great elder with a mature mind, a love for his country, deep respect for his people, and a devoted friendship that made him a father of the nation.”
The Patriarch noted that while the passing of the Grand Mufti brought him personal relief from the hardships of life, it represents a profound loss for the country. “Those who combine age with wisdom are rare in any era, and our grief is deep,” he added.
Abune Mathias extended his heartfelt wishes of comfort to the late Grand Mufti’s family, the followers of Islam, and the people of Ethiopia.