Leaders from across the political divide mourned Pope Francis as a visionary religious leader who had left an indelible mark on the world’s map, both within and outside the Catholic Church.
Tributes poured in from across the country following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 on Easter Monday at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta.
The leaders described the late pontiff as a global spiritual icon whose humility, unwavering compassion, and commitment to social justice transcended religious boundaries.
President William Ruto described the death of Pope Francis “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. 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,” President Ruto said.
President Willliam Ruto with Pope Francis at the 50th G7 Summit, in Apulia, Italy on June 14, 2024.
Photo credit: File | PCS
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said: The death of Pope Francis is a monumental loss to Catholic faithful around the world. 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.”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said 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...We will remember him strongly as one of the Popes who visited Kenya during his Papacy and oftenly prayed for Kenya,” Gachagua said.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka termed the Pope as “an extraordinary man and most assuredly the best version of humanity.”
He urged people of all faiths to live up to the Pope’s creed of fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalized.
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr Alfred Mutua recalled his personal encounter with the Pope during the pontiff’s visit to Kenya, a moment he said he would forever cherish.
“I hold dear the papal visit medal that he gave me and my colleagues. I recently visited the Church of St. Francis of Assisi and understood why Pope Francis chose that name, humility and service, others before self,” said Dr Mutua.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff said “As a Muslim, I convey my sympathies in the spirit of shared humanity and respect for the immense spiritual and moral leadership that Pope Francis provided to the world.”
He described the late Pope as a beacon of humility, compassion, and justice, championing peace, interfaith dialogue, care for the poor, and stewardship of our common home.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa said the Pope’s life touched millions around the world and reflected humility, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Migori Governor Gladys Wanga referred to him as a “humble shepherd and a bridge-builder of faiths” and described his death during the Easter period as heart-breaking.
Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika highlighted the Pope’s commitment to justice, peace, and the dignity of all people, while Bungoma’s Kenneth Lusaka hailed him as a towering spiritual leader and a voice of peace, humility, and compassion.
Murang’a Governor Dr Irungu Kang’ata said “the departed Pope Francis represented the fort of the Bill of Rights where his driving force was the doctrine of inalienable rights”.
Dr Kang’ata prayed that all the Catholic faithful get the fortitude to bear the loss and urged all global leaders to have the work ethics as similar as those the Pope exhibited in his service”.
He added: “there is no greater fulfilment for a leader than to know those you lead milk inspiration, hope and faith from you”.
He said “the Pope, truly, shall be remembered for his simplicity and no pretentiousness, opting for simple life that abhorred opulence even when his office afforded him gold and silver life”.
Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri said “the Pope’s death comes at a time when the Christian Christ has arisen from the dead”.
Mr Kiunjuri said the coincidence localized should translate to hope within gloom, celebration within mourning.
“It is a time like this when we as Kenyans should reflect and chose to celebrate in our mourning and inculcate a culture of pursuing renewed hope in efforts to make things work,” he said.
Mr Kiunjuri said “we are all united in grief and at the same time close ranks to have hope that the strong humanity values founded on dynamics of the modern world that the late Pope pursued will be progressed by the one to succeed him”.
Taita Taveta Woman Representative Lydia Haika described the Pope as a true shepherd of faith, love, and humanity. She recalled a recent brief encounter with the Pope in Rome, calling it a treasured moment.
“In that brief moment, I felt the warmth, wisdom, and peace that he carried so effortlessly,” she said.
Reporting by Wachira Mwangi, Mwangi Muiruri, Francis Mureithi and George Munene
