President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. Photo/PCS
By Newsflash Writer
President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Monday, April 21, 2025, joined millions of Catholics and Christians around the world in mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away early Monday morning.
The pontiff, remembered for his humility, simplicity, and unwavering devotion to justice and service, leaves behind a legacy that transcended religious boundaries.
National leaders pay tribute
In a heartfelt message, President Ruto paid tribute to Pope Francis, describing him as a spiritual leader whose moral authority and example deeply influenced people of all faiths.
“We join the Catholic Church and the global Christian community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis,” President Ruto said. “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.”
President Ruto highlighted the Pope’s commitment to servant leadership and social justice, saying his deep compassion for the poor and vulnerable made him a revered figure across the globe.
“He exemplified servant leadership through his humility, his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice, and his deep compassion for the poor and the vulnerable. His strong ethical and moral convictions inspired millions across the world, regardless of faith or background. May his soul Rest in Eternal Peace,” he said.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed the President’s sentiments, describing the Pope’s death as a monumental loss for the Catholic Church and Christians worldwide.
“He inspired millions of people and lived a simple life of grace and service to others. May his legacy live on, may his soul find rest,” said Kindiki.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also paid tribute, reflecting on Pope Francis’s firm spiritual leadership and humility.
Read more: Pope Francis dies at 88, Vatican confirms
“I join the Catholic Church and the world in mourning the demise of the Holy Father, Pope Francis. He led the Church on firm doctrine and faith and inspired many people outside the Catholic Church with great love and humility,” said Gachagua.
Gachagua also recalled the pontiff’s visit to Kenya, noting the spiritual impact of that occasion.
“The Holy Father has left a big gap in the Church and the world. His contribution to Catholicism remains strong. We will remember him strongly as one of the Popes who visited Kenya during his Papacy and prayed for our nation oftenly. May Papa Francis rest in peace and perpetual light shine upon him,” he added.
A legacy of faith, humility, and social justice
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula described the Pope as a global beacon of compassion, unity, and faith.
“With deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss, I join millions across the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. A beacon of humility, compassion, and social justice, Pope Francis dedicated his life to serving God and humanity,” Wetang’ula stated.
He lauded the Pope’s efforts to reform the Church and promote dignity for all.
“His unwavering advocacy for the poor, tireless pursuit of peace, and call for unity touched hearts worldwide. Through his words and actions, he embodied Christ’s teachings of love, mercy, and forgiveness,” he said.
Wetang’ula also praised the Pope’s influential encyclicals such as Evangelii Gaudium and Fratelli Tutti, and his emphasis on the Church being a “field hospital” — a place of refuge and healing.
Read more: Vatican: Pope Francis is not dead
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi also joined in mourning, quoting Scripture to honor the Pope’s life of faith.
“I join the Catholic faithful across the globe at this moment of deep grief following the death of Pope Francis early this morning. Pope Francis has fought the good fight; has finished the race; and has kept the faith (2 Tim 4:7). May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
As Kenya and the world reflect on the life and legacy of Pope Francis, his teachings, humility, and deep love for humanity continue to resonate far beyond the Vatican. His passing marks the end of a profound chapter in the modern Church, one defined by outreach, simplicity, and a call for unity in a divided world.
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