Palestinian singer Mohamed Lafi dies after contracting coronavirus

Palestinian singer and Arabic Pop Idol Mohamed Lafi has died aged 38 after contracting the novel coronavirus.

Lafi, who was a contestant on the first season of SuperStar in 2003, died on Saturday in Kuwait at Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah Hospital, according to the online news site Rai Al-Youm.

Rouwaida Attieh, a runner-up on the same season of SuperStar, paid tribute to the singer on Instagram.

"Muhammad, oh sweetheart, oh good and good man. Our memories of bitter and sweet will always remain in the heart, dear, you," she said.

"May God give us patience in your separation and give patience to your family and all your lovers. This is how I rested, Lafi. I went to a sweeter place, there is no sadness or fatigue, we belong to God and to Him we shall return," she added. 

Other singers who paid respects to Lafi included the SuperStar 2003 winner Diana Karazon.

Lafi was very popular at the time of his appearance on the show but apparently distanced himself from singing shortly after making a few rare appearances on media channels. 

Lafi lost his sight at 14 years of age due to health complications, and shot to fame after taking part in the popular talent show, which originally launched on Future TV. The show has since been renamed as 'Arab Idol' and broadcasts on MBC 1.