As the world comes to terms with the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, tributes continue to pour in from leaders, communities, and faith groups across the globe. In South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) has joined the chorus of condolences, describing the late pontiff as a tireless champion of human rights and dignity for all.
In a heartfelt statement issued by the party, ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri praised Pope Francis not only for his religious leadership but also for his deep commitment to social justice and his unwavering support for the marginalized.
“Pope Francis will be remembered not only as the head of the Catholic Church, but as a spiritual force whose life was dedicated to standing up for what is right. His compassion, humility, and courage inspired millions across the world—regardless of their faith or background,” said Bhengu-Motsiri.
Elected as the 266th pope in 2013, Pope Francis made history as the first pope from Latin America, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name Francis—an homage to Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his devotion to the poor. From the very beginning of his papacy, he broke with tradition, choosing a simpler lifestyle and emphasizing service to the most vulnerable.
The ANC statement highlighted Pope Francis’s ability to transcend religious, political, and cultural boundaries. His global influence, the party noted, extended far beyond the confines of the Vatican and reached the “furthest margins of society.”
“From the Vatican to the streets of the slums, Pope Francis walked with the excluded, spoke for the voiceless, and challenged the powerful to place human dignity above profit,” Bhengu-Motsiri said.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis became known for his progressive stance on a range of issues that resonated with millions, particularly in the developing world. He consistently raised his voice on climate change, economic inequality, and the refugee crisis. He called for compassion toward migrants and often criticized the excesses of capitalism, urging governments and corporations to act with conscience and prioritize the common good.
His teachings on inclusivity and mercy also marked a significant shift in the tone of the Catholic Church. While upholding traditional doctrine, he encouraged open dialogue on controversial topics, including same-sex unions, the role of women in the Church, and the treatment of divorced and remarried Catholics. This willingness to engage difficult subjects, while maintaining a pastoral and empathetic tone, earned him widespread respect both within and outside the Catholic faith.
In South Africa, Pope Francis’s messages often struck a chord, particularly his calls for reconciliation, peace, and ethical leadership. The ANC noted that his commitment to healing historical injustices aligned with the country’s own post-apartheid journey.
“He understood that faith must be lived through action. His life’s work echoed the principles of Ubuntu—recognizing the humanity in others and striving for a society rooted in empathy and justice,” Bhengu-Motsiri added.
As global mourning continues, the ANC extended its condolences to the global Catholic community, the Vatican, and all those who were touched by Pope Francis’s leadership. His death, the party said, leaves a void not just in the Catholic Church, but in the broader movement for human dignity, peace, and justice.
“Pope Francis’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the timeless values he stood for. The world has lost a moral compass, but his light will continue to guide us in the struggle for a better, more compassionate world,” the statement concluded.
