By Prince Ahenkorah
President John Dramani Mahama and former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia have offered their condolences to the Catholic Church in Ghana following the passing of Pope Francis.
In his message shared on social media, President Mahama expressed sympathy to the Catholic community and praised the late Pope’s leadership. “The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis. I extend heartfelt condolences to the Roman Catholic Church and all Catholic faithful in Ghana during this time of profound grief,” he wrote.
Reflecting on his personal meeting with Pope Francis during a visit to the Vatican with his wife, Lordina Mahama, the President fondly recalled the encounter. “I fondly remember visiting the Vatican with my wife, Lordina, where we had the distinct honor of meeting Pope Francis.”
Mahama commended the Pope’s legacy of compassion, humility, and dedication to social justice, stating, “His leadership and advocacy for the poor and marginalized will continue to inspire generations. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Former Vice President Dr. Bawumia also expressed his sorrow over the Pope’s passing, describing him as a man of peace and compassion. “It is with deep grief that I learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He lived a life of inclusiveness and humility, admired by many around the world,” Bawumia said.
Sharing his experience of meeting the Pope, Bawumia highlighted the lasting impression left by Pope Francis’s values. “When I visited him a year ago, he left such a remarkable impression on me as one who embodied purity and righteousness.”
“I join the Catholic community in Ghana and worldwide in mourning this significant loss. Please accept my sincere condolences. May his legacy inspire us in our life pursuits,” Bawumia concluded.
Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at 88 at his residence in Casa Santa Marta. He had served as the Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church since 2013.
In recent years, concerns about the Pope’s health had been raised, leading to hospitalizations for bronchitis, pneumonia, and other medical issues. Despite his health challenges, he continued to inspire hope and compassion among his followers.
The passing of Pope Francis marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church, as faithful around the world mourn the loss of a beloved leader. His legacy of empathy, humility, and commitment to social justice will endure as a guiding light for generations to come.