Until a new pope is chosen, Cardinal Kevin Farrell will act as the head of the Vatican.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the late Pope Francis as a spiritual leader who sought to “unite humanity”.
Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on Monday, the Vatican said in a video statement.
The pope’s death was announced “with deep sorrow” by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, who said Francis died at 7:35am local time. Until a new pope is chosen, Farrell acts as the head of the Vatican.
Pope’s death
Aged 88, Pope Francis’ death comes a day after making a much-hoped-for appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.
The 88-year-old pope recently survived a serious bout of double pneumonia.
Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences on behalf of the South African government and people to Catholics in the country and globally.
“Catholics and people of all faiths are saddened today by the passing of a spiritual leader who sought to unite humanity and wished to see a world governed by fundamental human values.”
ALSO READ: Pope Francis dies after Easter Sunday appearance
Unity
Ramaphosa said as the leader of the church and a global figurehead, Pope Francis “advanced a world view of inclusion, equality and care for marginalised individuals and groups, as well as responsible and sustainable custody of the natural environment”.
“His extraordinary life story and ascendancy to the Holy See unfolded with humility and a profound commitment to making the church and the world a better place for all of humanity.
“Following so soon after the celebration of Easter, Pope Francis’ passing will extend this traditional period of prayer and reflection, which will unite the church and the international community in reflecting on the Holy Father’s life and legacy,” Ramaphosa said.
Several other political parties and organisations have also conveyed their condolences.
Pope Francis
Francis had come close to dying twice earlier this year while suffering from pneumonia.
He spent 38 days in hospital before he was released on March 23.
On Sunday, he wished the crowds on Saint Peter’s Square a “Happy Easter”. As he waved and in his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” (“To the City and the World”) benediction, he called for freedom of thought and tolerance.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected pope on 13 March 2013, surprising many who had seen the Argentine cleric, known for his concern for the poor, as an outsider.
Pope Francis sought to project simplicity into the role and never took possession of the ornate papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace used by his predecessors, saying he preferred to live in a community setting for his “psychological health”.
ALSO READ: Pope Francis’ frail condition sparks resignation rumours
