President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the late Pope Francis as a person who advanced a worldview of inclusion, equality and care for marginalised individuals and groups.

Ramaphosa is among many world leaders that are mourning the death of the Argentine pontiff.

In a statement, the country’s first citizen offered his condolences on behalf of the South African government to Catholics globally.

Ramaphosa further added that Pope Francis was a spiritual leader who sought to unite humanity, and wished to see a world governed by fundamental human values.

Catholics and people of all faiths are saddened today by the passing of a spiritual leader who sought to unite humanity and wished to see a world governed by fundamental human values.

As the leader of the Church and a global figurehead, Pope Francis advanced a world view of… pic.twitter.com/MFUAliqF1V

— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) April 21, 2025

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has also conveyed its condolences to Catholics in South Africa on the death of the Pope.

The party says Pope Francis will be remembered for what it calls progressive leadership of the Church and compassion for those in need.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has also added her voice to those who have paid tribute to Pope Francis.

“Let me begin by also expressing my condolences to the Roman Catholic Church in South Africa and across the world for the passing of Pope Francis. Indeed, his was a life well lived, and we want to support all of those who are in mourning for his passing this morning,” says Creecy.

The DA offers condolences to Catholics across the globe, on the passing of the Holy Father, Pope Francis.

He’ll be remembered for his progressive leadership of the Church, compassion for those in need, and commitment to peace and tolerance for all. May he rest in eternal peace. pic.twitter.com/s2wtsgoMwf

— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) April 21, 2025

World leaders, such as Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, have also taken to social media to express condolences.

“Australian catholics and faithful around the world give thanks for the life of their holy father, Pope Francis, bishop of Rome. Today, the prayers of more than a billion people from all nations and every walk of life go with Pope Francis to his rest.”

During his last Easter message, the Pontiff indicated that the situation in Gaza is deplorable.

He also called on Hamas to release the remaining hostages.