Jaipur, Nov 25 (IANS): Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Wednesday expressed grief over the passing away of veteran Congress leader Ahmed Patel, saying he was his close friend and a trusted partner and that it was a great loss to the entire political community and the nation.

In a tweet, he said, "Apart from political association, I am deeply saddened by the passing away of my close friend Ahmed bhai. His untimely demise is a personal loss to me. Today I have lost a close friend and a trusted partner. No one will be able to fill the void left by Ahmed bhai."

"Sh. Ahmed Patel dedicated his entire life to the Congress party."

"In this way, he remained committed to keeping the Congress organization united even though staying away from power in his political life for more than four decades. His absence would be sorely missed."

"The sudden demise of Ahmed bhai is a great loss to the entire political community and the nation at this time. In today's situation, the Congress party will miss his presence even more deeply. May God give his family members, all loved ones the strength to bear this loss and may Ahmed bhai's soul RIP," the Rajasthan CM said.