Former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has joined world leaders in mourning the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, according to confirmation from the Vatican.
In a message shared on his official X page, Dr. Bawumia conveyed his sorrow over the Pope’s passing and extended his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community in Ghana and across the globe.
He pointed out to the late Pope’s legacy of peace, humility, and inclusiveness, describing him as a spiritual leader whose values went beyond borders and religious affiliations.
Dr. Bawumia reflected on his personal encounter with the Pope a year ago, noting the profound impression the Pope made on him through his genuine character and righteous approach to life.
He expressed solidarity with the global Catholic community in mourning the loss and encouraged others to draw inspiration from the Pope’s legacy in their own journeys.
Pope Francis died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced.
His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a statement released by the Vatican. He said: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.
“At 7.35 am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Pope Francis’s death came just a day after he delighted the crowds of worshippers at the Vatican on Easter Sunday with an appearance on the balcony at Saint Peter’s Basilica despite still convalescing after a severe illness.
Read full statement below;
It is with deep grief that I learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.
The late Pope was a man of unwavering peace and compassion. He lived a life of inclusiveness and humility, which was admired by many around the world.
When I visited him a year ago, he left such a remarkable impression on me as one whose true essence and outlook on life was to live pure and right. I join the Catholic community in Ghana and worldwide to mourn this huge loss.
Please accept my most sincere condolences. May his legacy inspire us as we continue to pursue our individual mandates on earth.
It is with deep grief that I learned of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.
The late Pope was a man of unwavering peace and compassion. He lived a life of inclusiveness and humility, which was admired by many around the world.
When I visited him a year ago, he left such a… pic.twitter.com/W2qphHyVu5— Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (@MBawumia) April 21, 2025
