Kenyan leaders have joined the global outpouring of grief following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away early Monday morning at the age of 88.
Described as a champion of peace, humility, and compassion, the pontiff’s passing has stirred heartfelt tributes from across the country’s political and religious spectrum.
“A Light to the World Has Dimmed” – Musalia Mudavadi
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi led the tributes with a solemn reflection on the pope’s legacy:
“A light to the world has dimmed. Today, we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, a shepherd of hope, peace, and unwavering faith. His legacy of compassion and unity will endure across generations. May he rest in eternal peace.”
“The Holy Father Has Left a Big Gap” – Rigathi Gachagua
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua noted the pope’s commitment to doctrinal integrity and outreach beyond Catholic circles:
“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. May Papa Francis rest in peace and perpetual light shine upon him.”
Lusaka, Wetangula: Tributes to a Global Shepherd
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka called Francis a “towering spiritual figure” and said his death was a moment of collective mourning for all people of faith:
“I join the Catholic faithful and the global Christian community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, whose life was marked by humility, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of peace.”
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula echoed the sentiment, describing Francis as a “beacon of humility, compassion, and social justice.”
“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.”
“A Proper Sinner’s Pope” – Edwin Sifuna Reflects
In a deeply personal tribute, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna called Pope Francis his favourite pontiff, noting the Holy Father’s effort to open the Church to those often left on the margins:
“Pope Francis is easily my favorite. A proper ‘sinner’s’ Pope. See, according to Catholic doctrine, marriages like mine under Luhya customary law are considered ‘unholy’ unions. Sometimes they won’t even baptize your kids till you ‘regularize’. This is the Pope who said it was OK for priests to extend blessings to sinners like me. May he rest in peace.”
A Global Figure with Local Impact
Though born in Argentina and based in Rome, Pope Francis maintained a deep connection with Africa throughout his papacy. He visited Kenya in 2015 during his tour of East Africa, where he called for justice, environmental stewardship, and an end to corruption — messages that resonated deeply with the Kenyan faithful.
As Catholics and non-Catholics alike in Kenya continue to mourn, the Vatican prepares for the funeral rites and the eventual election of a new pope.
