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National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula will travel to the Vatican on Thursday evening to attend the funeral of the late Pope Francis, set to take place on Saturday at St. Peter’s Square.
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Wetang’ula, who is a practicing Catholic, was chosen by President William Ruto to represent Kenya at the ceremony. He spoke while leading a delegation of Members of Parliament in paying their respects at the Apostolic Nunciature in Nairobi.
Remembering the Pope as a champion of peace and humanity, Wetang’ula said, “He devoted his life to fostering unity and understanding among people. As I told the House while we observed a minute of silence, one of his memorable quotes was: ‘The world is like a public hospital that heals wounds but wounds hearts.’ He believed in building bridges, not walls.”
Opposition leader Raila Odinga also paid tribute, describing the late pontiff as a compassionate spiritual leader who spoke out for the oppressed and stood against injustice. “He was gentle, prayerful, and always offered words of wisdom during times of crisis. Though I am not Catholic, I am a Christian and a friend of Catholics—and like many others, I am deeply saddened by this loss,” Odinga said.
He further acknowledged the Pope’s historic role as the first pontiff from the Global South, highlighting his legacy of hope, reconciliation, and empathy.
Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Hubertus reflected on Pope Francis’ spiritual mission, noting that the Pope’s approach to leadership was guided not by merit but by divine mercy. “He extended this same mercy to those around him—many of whom were wounded and estranged from faith. Yet he embraced them, worked with them, and helped them heal,” said the Archbishop.
Wetang’ula’s presence at the funeral underscores Kenya’s recognition of Pope Francis’ global influence and the deep respect he commanded across religious and cultural boundaries.
