Former President John Dramani Mahama has expressed profound sorrow and admiration in a heartfelt tribute to the late Pope Francis, following the announcement of the pontiff’s passing. In a reflective and emotional message shared via his official Twitter account on April 21, 2025, just hours after the Vatican confirmed the death of Pope Francis, President Mahama extended his deepest condolences to the global Roman Catholic Church, the Vatican, and millions of Catholics and admirers around the world who mourn the loss of a spiritual giant.

In his tribute, President Mahama reminisced about the cherished moments he was privileged to share with Pope Francis during his tenure as President of Ghana. He spoke warmly of the Pope’s humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to serving humanity, regardless of race, religion, or social status. Mahama noted that Pope Francis was not only a religious leader but also a moral compass for the world an advocate for peace, equality, and justice whose voice resonated far beyond the walls of the Vatican.

Highlighting the Pope’s legacy, President Mahama praised Francis for his steadfast dedication to social justice, poverty alleviation, and environmental stewardship. He emphasized how the Pope consistently championed the cause of the marginalized and oppressed, using his platform to call for compassion, tolerance, and unity in a world increasingly divided by conflict and inequality. According to Mahama, Pope Francis’ ability to connect with people from all walks of life stemmed from his genuine empathy and his belief in the dignity of every human being.

Mahama further reflected on the Pope’s bold leadership in addressing global challenges, including climate change, migration crises, and economic disparities. He lauded the late pontiff’s encyclicals and public statements that called upon world leaders to act with conscience and prioritize humanity over profit and politics. For President Mahama, these interventions were not just symbolic but transformative, inspiring policymakers, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens to rethink their roles in building a just and compassionate world.

Concluding his tribute, President Mahama remarked that Pope Francis’ passing marks the end of a remarkable earthly journey, but his legacy will endure as a guiding light for generations to come. He stressed that the Pope’s life work grounded in love, humility, and justice will continue to inspire both present and future leaders to uphold the values of service, empathy, and moral courage.

“In mourning the passing of Pope Francis, we also celebrate a life that was truly lived in the service of humanity. His legacy of compassion, humility, and relentless advocacy for the downtrodden will forever remain etched in the hearts of millions. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Mahama concluded.

The passing of Pope Francis has drawn tributes from global leaders, religious figures, and citizens alike, all united in honoring a man whose influence transcended religious boundaries and whose message of love and justice touched the world.