Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula is scheduled to depart Kenya on Thursday evening to attend the funeral of the late Pope Francis, set to take place on Saturday at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
Wetang’ula, a devout Catholic, has been nominated by President William Ruto to represent the country at the high-profile event, which will draw world leaders and religious figures from across the globe.
Speaking at the Apostolic Nunciature in Nairobi, where he led Members of the National Assembly in offering condolences, Wetang’ula mourned Pope Francis as a humble servant of humanity and a global symbol of peace.
“In my communication to the House, when we observed a minute of silence, I quoted one of his profound reflections: ‘The world is like a public hospital that heals wounds but wounds hearts.’ He championed unity over division, calling on the world to build bridges, not walls,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker described the late Pontiff as a beacon of hope who consistently advocated for justice, compassion, and the dignity of all people, regardless of their status or beliefs.
Joining in mourning, ODM leader Raila Odinga paid tribute to the Pope’s global influence and spiritual leadership.
“He was a very gentle soul who struggled in prayer for a better world. Every time trouble arose anywhere, he became a voice of reason. He stood with the oppressed and remained firm against injustice,” said Odinga.
Despite not being Catholic, Odinga emphasized his admiration for Pope Francis and the values he embodied.
“I am a Christian and a friend of Catholics. Pope Francis’ death is not just a loss to the Church, but to humanity. He was the first Pope from the Global South, and he personified the spirit of reconciliation, hope, and humility,” Odinga added.
Also present at the Nunciature, Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Hubertus spoke of the Pope’s legacy from a spiritual perspective, highlighting his mercy-driven approach to leadership.
