PRETORIA - President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent condolences on behalf of South Africans to Catholics around the world who are mourning the death of Pope Francis.
Ramaphosa says Pope Francis advanced a world view of inclusion and equality, adding that the Pontiff made a profound commitment to making the Church and the world a better place for all of humanity.
Also joining Ramaphosa in mourning the death of Pope Francis as well as reflecting on his legacy of compassion are other world leaders.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted the pope’s warmth and sensitivity.
US Vice President JD Vance, who met the pope during a recent visit to Rome, noted the significance of his passing for Christians around the world.
I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.
I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was obviously very ill. But I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days…— JD Vance (@JDVance) April 21, 2025
Kenya’s President William Ruto recognised Pope Francis’s focus on inclusivity and the vulnerable.
We join the Catholic Church and the global Christian community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.
This is a big loss to the Catholic faithful and the Christian world. Pope Francis will be remembered for a life dedicated to serving the Lord, the Church, and humanity.
He… pic.twitter.com/YmMLL90ccw— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) April 21, 2025
The Pontiff died this morning, aged 88, just a day after his appearance at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday.
Catholics around the world are reflecting, following the death of their spiritual leader.
The Pope was recently discharged from the hospital where he was being treated for double pneumonia.
He was released under strict conditions after at least two months of rest.
Still, he appeared on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, to deliver his final blessing to the world.
His final words emphasised the importance of freedom of thought and tolerance.