Former Plaid Cymru leader dies aged 78
Lord Elis-Thomas led the party between 1984 and 1991
Last updated 7th Feb 2025
Dafydd Elis-Thomas, the former leader of Plaid Cymru, has died aged 78.
Lord Elis-Thomas, who led Plaid between 1984 and 1991, died on Friday morning following a short illness.
Rhun ap Iorwerth, the leader of Plaid Cymru, led the tributes to Lord Elis-Thomas.
He said: "Dafydd's passing will be a huge loss to Welsh politics and the civic life of Wales.
"He was unquestionably one of the most influential figures of his generation, and as the presiding officer of the first Assembly made a priceless contribution in laying the firm foundations of devolution.
"We remember Dafydd as a groundbreaking MP when he became the youngest Member of the 1974 UK Parliament before leading Plaid Cymru with passion and distinction.
"Dafydd was a personal friend to my family and I, and was an influential figure during my formative years.
"His love for our nation, its language and culture was unwavering.
"On behalf of Plaid Cymru, I extend our sincerest condolences to Dafydd's family."
In a statement, First Minister Eluned Morgan: "It is with profound sadness that I learned of the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas. Wales has lost one of its greatest servants, and many of us have lost an irreplaceable friend.
"Dafydd was a true giant of Welsh politics and a passionate champion of our nation, our language, and our culture. From his groundbreaking role as the first Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales to his service in both Houses of Parliament, he helped shape the Wales we know today.
"On a personal level, Dafydd was an inspiration to me from my earliest days in politics. His ability to remain true to his principles while working constructively across party lines showed me what truly effective public service could look like. I had the privilege of working alongside him in the House of Lords, the Senedd and Welsh Government, where his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to Wales were extraordinary.
"What I'll remember most about Dafydd was his infectious enthusiasm for Welsh culture and dedication to preserving our language. He was equally at home discussing medieval Welsh poetry as he was debating constitutional reform - a true Renaissance man who embodied the very best of Welsh intellectual tradition.
"Beyond politics, Dafydd was a kind and generous friend, always ready with wise counsel or a warm word of encouragement. His mischievous sense of humour and storytelling abilities made every conversation memorable.
"Wales has lost one of its most distinguished servants, and I have lost a dear friend. Our nation is immeasurably richer for his lifetime of service, and his vision of a proud, confident, and culturally vibrant Wales will continue to inspire generations to come."