Ruto, Gachagua's Messages On Death Of Pope Francis

President William Ruto has joined global leaders in mourning the death of Pope Francis. Posting on his social media, Ruto called the Pope’s passing a major loss for both the Catholic Church and the world at large.

Earlier on Monday, April 21, the Vatican News confirmed that Pope Francis died at the age of 88, after battling double pneumonia for over one month. 

"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 wrote on his social media accounts.

"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. May his soul Rest in Eternal Peace."

On his part, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also paid tribute to the Pope, reminiscing about his visit to Kenya back in 2015.

He noted that the Jesuit leader’s passing has left a significant void in both the Church and the world, highlighting his impactful role in advancing 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. According to the Vatican News on X, "Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 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 embodied Christ’s teachings of love, mercy, and forgiveness, championing the dignity of every human being, regardless of race, nationality, or status,'' Wetangula stated. 

The 88-year-old Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, which later progressed into bilateral pneumonia. He remained bedridden for more than a month.

His health took a serious turn, experiencing acute respiratory failure that required procedures like bronchoscopies to remove mucus and non-invasive mechanical ventilation to support his breathing.

After spending five weeks in the hospital, he was discharged on March 23, 2025. Before leaving, he appeared at a hospital window to deliver a blessing — his first public sighting since being admitted. 

On Sunday, he held a high-profile meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance — his first since the hospitalisation.