Late Pope Francis was a spiritual leader who sought to unite humanity, says Ramaphosa
The leader of the Catholic church died at age 88 earlier on Monday at his Vatican residence, the Casa Santa Marta.
FILE: President Cyril Ramaphosa answered questions in the National Assembly on 11 March 2025. Picture: Phando Jikelo/Parliament
JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa has joined millions around the globe in extending condolences to the catholic community following the passing of Pope Francis.
The leader of the Catholic church died at age 88 earlier on Monday at his Vatican residence, the Casa Santa Marta.
He had been hospitalised for 38 days in the Gemelli hospital in Italy earlier this year.
This was the longest hospitalisation of the Pope’s 12-year papcy.
Ramaphosa has echoed the sentiments of many in the world over, calling the late Pope Francis a spiritual leader who sought to unite humanity and wished to see a world governed by fundamental human values.
This especially rings true as the pontiff regularly checked in with priests in Gaza even during his hospitalisation.
Ramaphosa also says the leader of the catholic church used his position to advance inclusion, equality and care for marginalised individuals and groups.
Ramaphosa has lauded the late pontiff for his commitment to making the church a better place for humanity.