President William Ruto has led the nation in mourning the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88 whom the Vatican announced died Monday morning after having recently survived a serious bout of double pneumonia.
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, is said to have curved his papacy reign on his concern for the poor, as an outsider who sought to project simplicity into the grand role since his election on March 13, 2013,
His death was reported a few hours after his last public appearance on Easter Sunday blessing at the Vatican’s St Peter’s Square
This was after he had met Vice President JD Vance at the pontiff’s residence in Rome in a previously unannounced visit during Easter celebrations.
President William Ruto has termed his death a profound loss to the Catholic Church and the global Christian community and praised the late pontiff as a spiritual leader who embodied humility, compassion, and justice throughout his life.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church and Sovereign of the Vatican City State.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, has said that A light to the world has dimmed
He has described Pope Francis, a shepherd of hope, peace, and unwavering faith adding that His legacy of compassion and unity will endure across generations.
The Raila Odinga-led Orange Democratic Movement party added that the Pope was the embodiment of peace who championed a peaceful society.
On his part, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said Pope Francis has left a big gap in the Church and the world and that his contribution to Catholicism remains strong.