Kozhikode (Kerala): Syed Ali Bafaqi Thangal, president of Markazu Saqafathi Sunniyya institutions and a prominent leader of the Kanthapuram faction of Samastha, has passed away. Originating from the renowned Bafaqi family of Koyilandy – traders who arrived from Yemen two and a half centuries ago and evolved into Malabar's trade, religious and political figures – Syed Ali Bafaqi Thangal initially joined the textile trade after completing his religious studies at Jami'iya Nooriya, Pattikkad, in 1965.

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His entry into active organisational leadership began in 1978 through the Sunni Yuvajana Sangham (SYS), guided by Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar. Following the split in Samastha and the subsequent establishment of Markaz, Syed Ali Bafaqi Thangal stood alongside Kanthapuram throughout every phase of the movement's growth. His backing proved to be a major source of strength for Kanthapuram amidst widespread opposition.
 

Over his career, he served as the state vice-president of SYS, treasurer of the Samastha Kerala Islam Matha Vidyabhyasa Board, and ultimately as president of the Markaz institutions. He was also the son-in-law of Abdurahiman Bafaqi Thangal, a key figure in the Muslim League and Samastha.

Recalling their association, Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar noted that despite his scholarship and pedigree, Syed Ali Bafaqi Thangal had initially chosen the textile business established by his forefathers. Following regular visits to Koyilandy, Kanthapuram encouraged him to step onto the platforms of Samastha and its feeder organisations, leading to his appointment to the educational board and subsequent leadership roles.

Chief Minister V D Satheesan expressed deep condolences, describing the passing of Syed Ali Bafaqi Thangal as a profound loss to Kerala's religious, social and educational sectors.

The Chief Minister highlighted his invaluable contributions to educational advancements across Kerala and other states through Samastha and Markaz. Agriculture Minister T Siddique also paid tribute, remembering him as a revered scholar who maintained humility and simplicity throughout his life, and noting that his death marks the loss of a senior patriarch of the Bafaqi family.