Ester Mbathera
Namibians have joined millions of people around the world in mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after a battle with pneumonia.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah extended her condolences to the Vatican, describing the late pontiff as “an extraordinary leader of faith who led with compassion, courage and integrity until his last breath.”
She noted his focus on global socioeconomic issues and his concern for the developing world.
“We shall forever recall his simplicity and the wise spiritual guidance he emphasised in addressing the challenges facing humanity. On behalf of the people and the government of the Republic of Namibia, I extend sincere condolences to the Vatican, the entire Catholic Church community, and his family,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.
Bishop emeritus Zephania Kameeta of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Republic of Namibia expressed shock at the news.
“I saw this news unexpectedly, and my eyes are full with tears! Go in peace to your Risen Master, our Holy Father Pope Francis,” he wrote on social media.
The Catholic community in Namibia has begun planning memorial services to honour the late Pope’s legacy.
Details of these services are expected to be shared in the coming days.
Messages of grief and reflection filled social media platforms, with many highlighting his humility and service to the poor.
One user wrote, “Rest in peace, Holy Father. Your humility and dedication to the poor will never be forgotten.”
Another posted, “He was a beacon of hope for many, regardless of faith.”
Internationally, tributes also came from Christian leaders and political figures.
Right Reverend Anthony Poggo, the secretary general of the Anglican Communion, described Pope Francis as a man who brought joy to his ministry and a global commitment to justice, mercy, and reconciliation.
He praised the Pope’s support for inter-church initiatives and his impact beyond Catholic circles.
“Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis has consistently demonstrated a profound commitment to evangelisation, to show justice, mercy, love and reconciliation. His words and actions have touched the hearts of millions, transcending the boundaries of Christian divisions and inspiring people of all faiths to join hands in pursuit of a more just and compassionate world,” he said.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called Pope Francis “a transcendent voice of peace, human dignity, and social justice,” and offered condolences to Catholics and others inspired by his example.
In the United States, President Donald Trump issued a proclamation ordering flags to fly at half-staff in honour of Pope Francis.
“He was a good man, worked hard. He loved the world,” said Trump.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama described Pope Francis as “a rare leader who made other leaders want to be better people.”
He praised his gestures of compassion, including ministering to the homeless and embracing the sick.
Argentina and Brazil have declared seven days of mourning.
Across the Arab world, leaders acknowledged Pope Francis’s legacy.
Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi called him “a voice of peace, love and compassion”, while Jordan’s King Abdullah II described him as “the Pope of the People”.
Palestinian Authority President, Mahmoud Abbas, called Pope Francis “a faithful friend of the Palestinian people”, and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said the Pope was “a powerful voice for justice and peace”.
As the Vatican prepares for the election of a new pontiff, speculation has begun over possible successors.
Names mentioned include Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Turkson, and Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
The process will take place in the Sistine Chapel, where cardinals under the age of 80 will vote in conclave to choose the next pope.
