International leader of the Yazidis Mir (prince) Tahsin Said Ali Beg, died at the aged 86 in Hanover, Germany on January 28.

At Monday’s vigil, Wagga resident Aido Silo said he was considered a dad by many of the religious group throughout the world who championed their rights. 

“Everyone all over the world, from Germany to Iraq, are commemorating him,” he said.

“He would talk over the world about the Yazidi and of all what happened to our community and that ISIS terrorise the women and kill the man and they hurt the children.

“He told the world that we need to be safe and have a good life and we are not making problems for others.”

Jilan Kahto said it was a difficult loss as the community looked to him for leadership, even in matters of organising celebrations. 

“Now we lose him and we hope we will have his son to take his place and to do the same work,” she said.

“For now we are not sure as they [leaders] have not decided yet so they will talk between themselves and they will organise who will take his place.

“We hope he will do good things for us and improve life for Yazidis.” 

Mr Silo said Mir Tahsin set the standard to follow. 

“We lose him like we lose everything in our life,” he said. 

“We need a king to support everyone and to teach the community.

“His son will be like a king for all the Yazidis all over the world.” 

Mr Silo said the commemoration was to mourn the loss but to also share with Australia an important part of their culture. 

“We never will forget our prince and no one will be able to do what he did.” 

The body of Mir Tahsin was returned to Iraq on February 4. 

Belinda Crain, CEO of the Wagga Multicultural Council said she would like to thank Mount Austin Primary School.

“Anna, the principal, and the school have always been great advocates and supported many events for the Multicultural Council and in particular the Yazidi community.” 

Aido Silo’s comments were translated by Jilan Kahto. 

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