By Akani Nkuna
President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended condolences to the global Catholic community following the death of Pope Francis on Monday.
In a statement, the president acknowledged the Pope’s profound spiritual leadership and his role in promoting peace, compassion and justice across the world.
Ramaphosa noted that Pope Francis left a lasting legacy that transcended religious boundaries, uniting people of all faiths through his unwavering commitment to humanity and social justice.
“Catholics and people of faith are saddened today by the passing of a spiritual leader who sought to unite humanity and wished to see a world governed by fundamental human values,” said Ramaphosa said in a statement.
“As a leader of the Church and global figurehead, Pope Francis advanced a world view of inclusion, equality and care for marginalised individuals and groups, as well as responsible and suitable custody of the natural environment.”
Pope Francis passed away early Monday morning at the age of 88. He died peacefully at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, within the Vatican. The Vatican confirmed his death, marking an end of a papacy defined by humility, reform and a deep commitment to social and spiritual justice.
The first Pope to hail from the Global South and the first Jesuit to ascend to the Catholic Church’s highest office, Pope Francis emerged as a powerful moral voice since his election in March 2013, according to the Economic Freedom Fighters.
The party said that his papacy has been defined by a steadfast commitment to the marginalised, championing the rights of the poor, the displaced and the oppressed.
”Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis consistently challenged the injustices of global capitalism, denouncing the greed of multinational corporations and the exploitative systems that have left billions of people in poverty,” said EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo.
“He was a firm critic of unregulated markets, stating that “the excluded are still waiting” for true economic justice and that an economy driven solely by profit without concern for human dignity is an economy that kills”.
According to the EFF, in Africa, the pope was likely to be remembered for his impactful visits to some of the continent’s most impoverished and conflict-ridden areas. Furthermore, during his travels, he walked side by side with ordinary citizens, spoke out strongly against corruption whilst calling out on political leaders to prioritise the needs of the poor.
“His recognition of Africa’s struggles, and his insistence that global powers stop exploiting the continent’s wealth while leaving its people in poverty, will remain a critical part of his legacy,” Thambo added.
MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said Pope Francis’ consistent call for a “culture of encounter” and inclusive dialogue reflected the very ideals that many South Africans have fought for over decades.
He added that Pope’s approach, rooted in compassion, humility and a commitment to healing would leave a lasting legacy and continue to inspire future generations.
“As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life lived in service to humanity and guided by deep moral conviction. We share in the sorrow of the Catholic faithful in South Africa and beyond and we pray for strength and comfort during this time of mourning,” Ndhlela added.
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