New Delhi, Nov 25 (IANS): Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday while condoling the death of Ahmed Patel said she has lost a dedicated Congress colleague.

"In Sh. Ahmed Patel, I have lost a colleague, whose entire life was dedicated to the Congress Party," she said

She said, "His faithfulness and dedication, his commitment to his duty, his always being there to help, his generosity were rare qualities that distinguished him from others."

"I have lost an irreplaceable comrade, a faithful colleague and a friend. I mourn his passing and I feel deeply for his bereaved family to whom I offer my sincere feelings of empathy and support," she added.

Scores of Congress leaders condoled Ahmed Patel's death, "It is very hard to come to terms with Ahmed Patel Ji's passing. He was a political troubleshooter par excellence & will be sorely missed by all. "Ahmedbhai" was also a close friend of my late father's & a mentor to me," tweeted Milind Deora.

B.K. Hariprasad said in a tweet, "It's very saddening to know about the demise of Shri Ahmad Patel ji. Congress has lost one of its greatest sons. I am at a loss of words at his death. May his soul rest in peace. May god give strength to his family to cope up with this terrible loss."