Ismail Firaq, who served successive administrations for decades as a public servant, passed away on Wednesday evening at ADK Hospital at 59 after a long battle for his health.

Firaq had spent a commendable 19 years in public service, performing in high-ranking positions at the former Atolls, Planning and Tourism Ministries in the past. He was first the Secretary at the Ministry of Atolls Administrations before fulfilling the positions of Assistant Project Officer and Program Analyst.

Following this, he served at the Tourism Ministry in the position of Assistant Director for Planning and Development. He also worked at the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Water as Director, as well as in the Ministry of Planning and National Development as Director General, and later as Executive Director.

Firaq was married to the current Presidential Secretary at the President's Office, Fathimath Mohamed Solih, and was brother-in-law to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. He is survived by his wife, one daughter and one son.

Funeral prayers were held for Ismail Firaq after Dhuhr prayers on Thursday at Masjid-al-Furqan, with President Solih, Vice-President Faisal Naseem and other government officials in attendance to pay their respects.