The former First Minister and Welsh Labour Leader for Wales Rhodri Morgan has died. Mr Morgan passed away on Wednesday (May 17) aged 77. Numerous tributes to Mr Morgan have poured in on social media. Following his death the serving First Minister for Wales, Carwyn Jones said:
Wales hasn’t just lost a great politician, we’ve lost a real father figure. In very many ways Rhodri wasn’t like other politicians, and that is why people warmed to him, trusted him and felt like they knew him so well.
He was funny, clever, engaging on almost any topic and absolutely passionate about all things Welsh.
I owe him a great deal, just as we all do in Wales. He did so much to fight for, and then establish devolution in the hearts and minds of the public in our country. His bright confidence was infectious, and we can see much of Rhodri’s can-do attitude in our modern Wales.
That first decade of self-governance, and making distinct choices for Wales will forever be associated with his leadership.He will be hugely missed, and my thoughts are with Julie and all the family at this sad time.
Mr Morgan was first minister for almost 10 years from 1999, before taking up a role as chancellor of Swansea University in October 2011 after retiring from politics.
He is survived by his wife, Julie and three children.
