Ruto joins Kenyans in mourning Pope Francis

President William Ruto has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing it as a significant blow to the Catholic Church and the global Christian community.

The Pope was confirmed dead on the morning of Easter Monday.

In a moving tribute, President Ruto honored the late pontiff for his life of service, marked by humility, empathy, and a steadfast dedication to justice.

"We stand in solidarity with the Catholic Church and believers around the world as we grieve the death of Pope Francis,” said Ruto.

"This is a monumental loss for the Church and for Christians everywhere."

The President acknowledged the Pope’s lifelong commitment to uplifting the marginalized, emphasizing his role as a model of servant leadership.

"He embodied the spirit of servant leadership, showing unmatched humility and a tireless commitment to justice and inclusion," Ruto noted.

"His compassion for the less fortunate was a guiding light for millions."

President Ruto also commended Pope Francis for promoting strong moral values that resonated globally, cutting across cultural and religious lines.

"His deep ethical convictions and moral leadership touched people of all faiths and backgrounds. May he rest in everlasting peace," he concluded.

Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula joined the chorus of tributes, mourning the passing of the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and head of the Vatican.

Wetang’ula, a committed Catholic, described the Pope as a symbol of spiritual strength, humility, and love.

"It is with heartfelt sadness that I received news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis," said the Speaker.

"He devoted his life to serving both God and humanity with unwavering dedication."

Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, remembered Pope Francis as a steadfast defender of the poor and marginalized, whose impact will be deeply felt for generations.

"He truly reflected the teachings of Christ, calling on us to live lives of love, mercy, and forgiveness," Wetang’ula stated.

"He was relentless in his pursuit of dignity for every human being, especially the downtrodden."

Offering spiritual comfort to Catholics around the world, Wetang’ula shared a message rooted in Scripture:

"As we grieve his loss, we also honour the remarkable life he led—a life filled with faith, love, and humility. We are comforted by the words of Jesus in John 11:25: ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die."'

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also paid tribute to the late Pope, saying: "The world has lost a beacon of hope. Today, we mourn the passing of Pope Francis—a shepherd of peace, faith, and compassion. His enduring legacy of unity and kindness will live on through the ages. May his soul rest in everlasting peace."

Other global leaders who've mourned the death of Pope Francis include US Vice President JD Vance, Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Russian leader Vladimir Putin, Britain's King Charles and Queen Camilla, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the French President Emmanuel Macron.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church and became renowned for his progressive outlook and strong emphasis on social justice.

His passing brings to a close a papacy that left a profound impact, not just within the Church, but across the world, touching the lives of countless believers, including millions of Catholics in Kenya.