Courtesy|Office of President

President Salva Kiir has joined world leaders in mourning the death of Pope Francis, noting that the pontiff’s efforts to promote peace in South Sudan have left an indelible mark on the country’s history.

Pope Francis passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Sunday at his apartment in the Domus Santa Marta, following a stroke and a heart attack, according to the Vatican.

He was 88 years old.

In a condolence message issued yesterday, President Kiir expressed deep sorrow upon hearing of the Holy Father’s passing. Kiir emphasized that South Sudan held a special place in Pope Francis’s heart, demonstrated by his 2023 visit to the country—a visit that came at a time when the world was skeptical about the prospects for peace in South Sudan, and when the government was steadfast in its determination to pave the way for the nation’s future.

“It goes without saying that South Sudan had a special spot in the heart of the His Holiness, Pope Francis, his apostolic visit to South Sudan in February 2023 was courageous and renewed the hope of the people of South Sudan,” he said.

Reflecting on his 2019 trip to Rome with peace partners, Kiir recalled how Pope Francis demonstrated immense kindness and humility by kneeling and kissing their feet—an act Kiir described as a turning point for South Sudan’s leaders.

President Kiir said that the late Pope will be remembered as a beacon of hope, compassion, and unity among the South Sudanese people.

“Pope Francis will be remembered as a beacon of hope, compassion, and unity. His efforts to promote peace in our country have left an indelible mark on the history of our country