President William Ruto has joined other leaders in mourning the passing of the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis.
In a statement shared on his social media accounts, Ruto described the loss of the Pope as a big loss to the world and the church.
"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.
Adding, "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.''
Former Deputy President Rigathi also mourned the pontiff, recalling the moments when he last visited Kenya in 2015.
Gachagua also revealed that the passing away of the Jesuit had left a big gap in the church and world, noting that he had made a great contribution to the Catholic faith.
''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," Gachagua stated.
"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 often. May Papa Francis rest in peace, and perpetual light shine upon him.''
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula also led the parliamentarians in mourning Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 on Monday at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.
''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 signified Christ’s teachings of love, mercy, and forgiveness, championing the dignity of every human being, regardless of race, nationality, or status," Wetangula stated.
According to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, the Pope passed away at 7:35am on Monday, April 21.
"Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta," Vatican News said in a tweet, confirming the passing of the pontiff.
