Published on April 21, 2025 by Kariuki Mwangi
Last Updated on 1 year by Kariuki Mwangi
President William Ruto has today joined Catholic faithfuls in mourning Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday following a long illness.
President Ruto took to his social media accounts to mourn the holy father terming the Pope’s death as a big loss to the Catholic faithful and the Christian world.
“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,” Ruto said
“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,” Ruto added.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who hosted Pope Francis during his visit to Kenya said that the world has lost not just a spiritual leader, but a true embodiment of Christ’s love, who broke barriers between faiths and continents.
“His Holiness Pope Francis’ visit to Nairobi remains etched in our national memory as a divine moment when thousands of Kenyans from all faiths gathered, united by his powerful call to be “protectors of God’s creation” and builders of a more just society. The world has lost not just a spiritual leader, but a true embodiment of Christ’s love, who broke barriers between faiths and continents,” Uhuru said
On behalf of the business community in the East African region, the president of the East African Chamber of Commerce & Industry (EACCI) Richard Ngatia eulogized Pope Francis as a beacon of hope, peace, and compassion, whose spiritual leadership touched millions across the globe.
In his message, Ngatia said; “It is with deep sorrow that we join the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. The late Pope was a beacon of hope, peace, and compassion, whose spiritual leadership touched millions across the globe. His unwavering commitment to unity, social justice, and interfaith dialogue has left an indelible mark on humanity.”
“On behalf of the East African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church, the Vatican, and all believers grieving this immense loss. May his legacy of love, humility, and service continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Rest in eternal peace, Your Holiness,”Ngatia said.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja said that the Pope’s legacy of compassion, humility, and tireless advocacy for peace and justice touched millions across the globe.
“We join the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. His legacy of compassion, humility, and tireless advocacy for peace and justice touched millions across the globe. I extend my deepest condolences to the Catholic Church here in Nairobi and worldwide, and to all people of faith who mourn his loss. In this moment of mourning, we join the global community in prayer, reflection, and gratitude for a life so selflessly lived in service to God and humanity. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Sakaja said
The Raila Odinga-led Orange Democratic Movement party added that the Pope was the embodiment of peace who championed for a peaceful society.
“We join the rest of the world and the Catholic community in mourning the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday,” ODM party said.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula described the Pope as a beacon of humility, compassion, and social justice, Pope Francis dedicated his life to serving God and humanity.
“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, championing the dignity of every human being, regardless of race, nationality, or status,” Wetangula said.
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.
“I join the Catholic Church and the World in mourning the demise of Holy Father, Pope Francis. Pope Francis led the Church on firm doctrine and faith and inspired many people outside the Catholic Church with great love and humility. The Holy Father has left a big gap in the Church and the world. His contribution to Catholicism remains strong. My deepest sympathies to the Catholic faithful in Kenya and the World. 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,” Rigathi wrote on his Facebook page.
Pope Francis died at the age of 88 having led the Catholic church in the world for more than a decade.
