President Kiir Mourns Pope Francis, Praises His Legacy of Peace and Compassion ‎

President Kiir Letter. 

‎President Salva Kiir Mayardit has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. in his apartment at the Domus Santa Marta in the Vatican.

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‎In an official condolence message issued today, President Kiir described Pope Francis as “a true and humble servant of God” and a beacon of hope, compassion, and unity. 

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‎The President recalled the Pope’s deep affection for South Sudan, emphasizing how the Holy Father consistently supported the country’s journey toward peace and reconciliation.

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‎“Pope Francis had a special spot in his heart for South Sudan,” Kiir wrote, highlighting the Pope’s historic apostolic visit to Juba in February 2023.

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‎“His courageous presence renewed the hope of the people of South Sudan at a time when the world had every doubt about our zeal for peace.”

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Deceased Pope Francis. 

‎President Kiir also remembered the Pope’s symbolic gesture in 2019 when he knelt and kissed the feet of South Sudanese leaders in Rome, calling it “a turning point” in the peace process. 

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‎The President said that Pope Francis would be forever remembered for encouraging unity and reminding leaders of the importance of peace.

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‎“South Sudanese across the divide will forever miss the Holy Father and remember His love for South Sudan,” he added.

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‎Local Reactions Across the Country

‎In Juba, worshippers at St. Theresa Cathedral held a special morning mass in memory of Pope Francis. 

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‎“He was a father to us,” said Sister Mary Angelina, a Catholic nun. “He touched our hearts with his humility and love, especially during our darkest times.”

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‎Father Paulino Ladu, a parish priest in Wau, said Pope Francis’ legacy would live on in the hearts of the faithful. “He gave us hope, he believed in our peace even when we doubted ourselves. His spirit will continue to guide South Sudan.”

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‎In Bor, a group of young peace advocates lit candles and observed a moment of silence. “When he kissed our leaders' feet, the world saw a different side of South Sudan,” said Emmanuel Deng, a youth leader. “That moment gave us a reason to believe in change.”