President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, the 266th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, hailing him as a global symbol of faith, compassion, and justice.

In a statement from the State House, President Chakwera, alongside the First Lady, praised Pope Francis for his enduring commitment to unity and peace, noting that he had the privilege of meeting the late pontiff during a visit to the Vatican nine months ago.

“We join all who were inspired by him in mourning his passing, as he leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, love and service, promoting peace, justice and unity,” reads part of the statement.

President Chakwera lauded Pope Francis for his bold leadership in reforming the Catholic Church and advocating for global governance reforms, specifically citing the Pope’s progressive teachings, including the influential environmental encyclical Laudato si’, which called for urgent action to care for the planet and address social inequalities.

“We will always remember him for his courage in advocating for reform in governance worldwide, which he himself led by example through the radical reforms he advanced in the Catholic Church,” the statement continued.

Offering condolences to the Pope’s family, the global Catholic community, and Malawian Catholics, the President prayed for Pope Francis’ eternal peace and celebrated his impactful life.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, served as Pope since 2013 and was known for his humility, progressive stance on social issues, and efforts to bridge divides both within and beyond the Church.

The global Christian community is mourning the loss of a spiritual leader whose message of love, inclusion, and stewardship touched millions across the world.

Pope Francis, 86, died on Easter Monday morning after suffering from pneumonia for a long time.