By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa, Umoja Standard.
VATICAN, ROME – ITALY: Pope Francis has indeed passed away at the age of 88. He died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta due to complications from double pneumonia.
The Pope had been battling health issues for several years, including kidney problems, anaemia, and lung infections, which led to several hospitalizations in recent months.
In his final years, Pope Francis’s health struggles forced him to reduce his public appearances and skip major religious events. Despite these challenges, he continued to fulfill his duties and made public appearances, including an emotional greeting at Easter Sunday Mass.
As the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis was known for his compassion, humility, and progressive views on global issues. He championed the rights of the poor, refugees, and the marginalized, and spoke out on major issues like climate change and inequality.
Tributes are pouring in from around the world, with leaders and citizens alike mourning the loss of the “People’s Pope”. Funeral arrangements are underway, with details to be announced by the Vatican. A conclave to choose his successor will take place at least 15 days after his death.