By REGINALD KANYANE
21 April 2025- The ANC has joined millions of people across the world in mourning the passing of the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis who died at the age of 88. The former liberation party said it extends its heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community, the leadership of the Roman Catholic Church and all those who were inspired by his life of service, humility and unwavering moral leadership.
ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said Francis will be remembered not only as the head of the Catholic Church, but as a revolutionary spiritual force, who spoke to the conscience of humanity. Bhengu-Motsiri said throughout his papacy, he embodied the values of compassion, justice and solidarity with the poor—values that resonate deeply with their own liberation tradition and the founding ethos of the ANC.
“From the Vatican to the furthest margins of society, Francis walked with the excluded, spoke for the voiceless and challenged the powerful to put humanity above greed.
“His prophetic voice called for the dismantling of systems that entrench poverty, inequality, war, and environmental destruction. In doing so, he reaffirmed the dignity of all people, particularly those in the Global South,” she said.
Bhengu-Motsiri further said they recall with profound appreciation his consistent message of hope to the peoples of Africa. She added that Francis never tired of calling for peace, for good governance and for economic justice on our continent.
“He encouraged dialogue over division, reconciliation over revenge, and solidarity over selfishness. His deep concern for Africa was not one of charity but of genuine brotherhood rooted in Ubuntu—the recognition that our humanity is bound together.
“In the face of a fractured world, Francis stood as a bridge-builder. He reached across religious, political and cultural divides, reminding us all of the sacred duty to seek peace and build a better world,” said Bhengu-Motsiri.
She said his courage to challenge outdated dogmas, to open doors for the marginalized and to speak hard truths with love and humility, will echo for generations. Bhengu-Motsiri said as the ANC, they salute the memory of a global leader, whose life was a testament to servant leadership and moral clarity.
“We are comforted by the knowledge that his teachings and example will endure in the hearts of millions who continue the struggle for a just and humane world.
Requiescat in pace et in amore Dei. May His Holiness rest in peace and in the love of God,” she said.
The Guardian 