President William Ruto has led the nation in mourning the death of Pope Francis, describing the pontiff’s passing as a profound loss to the Catholic Church and the wider Christian community. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died on Easter Monday morning, marking the end of a transformative papacy that touched millions around the globe.
In a heartfelt tribute, President Ruto praised the late pontiff for his humility, compassion, and commitment to justice. “This is a big loss to the Catholic faithful and the Christian world,” he said. “We join the Catholic Church and the global Christian community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.”
Ruto hailed Pope Francis for his unwavering advocacy for the poor and vulnerable, and for promoting inclusivity within the Church. “He exemplified servant leadership through his humility, his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice, and his deep compassion for the poor and the vulnerable,” Ruto added.
The President further noted that the Pope’s moral and ethical convictions transcended religious and cultural boundaries, inspiring millions across the world. “May his soul Rest in Eternal Peace,” he concluded.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, a devout Catholic, also mourned the Pope’s death. He described Pope Francis as “a spiritual beacon of humility, love, and justice,” and paid tribute to his lifelong dedication to serving God and humanity. “His Holiness embodied the very essence of Christ’s teachings, urging us to embrace love, mercy, and forgiveness,” said Wetang’ula.
Quoting John 11:25, Wetang’ula offered comfort to the grieving faithful: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.”
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi echoed these sentiments, calling Pope Francis “a shepherd of hope, peace, and unwavering faith.” He added, “A light to the world has dimmed… His legacy of compassion and unity will endure across generations.”
Pope Francis served as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church and was renowned for his progressive reforms and focus on social justice. His death marks the close of a spiritually impactful era, leaving behind a legacy that resonates with Catholics in Kenya and around the world.
