Monday, 21 April 2025.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) expresses our condolences on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. We send our sympathies to the Catholic faithful in South Africa, across Africa, and throughout the world, who today mourn the loss of a spiritual leader whose life was dedicated to faith, mercy, and the defence of the poor and marginalised.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the first Pope from the Americas, the first from the Global South, and the first Jesuit to occupy the highest position in the Catholic Church. Since his election to the papacy in March 2013, he became a voice of moral clarity in an era of growing inequality, conflict, and economic exploitation. His leadership was marked by commitment to the poor, the displaced, and the oppressed—principles that closely align with the EFF’s struggle for economic freedom and social justice.

Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis consistently challenged the injustices of global capitalism, denouncing the greed of multinational corporations and the exploitative systems that have left billions of people in poverty. He was a firm critic of unregulated markets, stating that “the excluded are still waiting” for true economic justice and that an economy driven solely by profit without concern for human dignity is an economy that kills.

Pope Francis was not merely a leader in words—he embodied the humility and simplicity that he preached. Rejecting the traditional luxury of the papacy, he chose to live in a modest residence, travel in simple cars, and serve meals to the homeless. His actions were a radical break from tradition, signalling a return to the Church’s roots of solidarity with the poor. In his teachings and his example, he reminded the world that the struggle for justice is not merely a political pursuit but a moral duty.

The Pope was also a strong advocate for the rights of refugees and migrants, urging nations to open their borders and their hearts to those fleeing war and economic despair.

In a world where the poor are criminalised, where black lives are treated as disposable, and where imperialist wars continue to kill and displace millions, Pope Francis continued to preach compassion and humanity. His appeals for racial justice, his calls to address the legacies of colonialism, and his outspoken criticism of those who profit from war reaffirmed his place as a world leader.

In Africa, Pope Francis will be remembered for his visits to some of the continent’s most impoverished and war-torn regions, where he walked among the people, condemned corruption, and urged leaders to act in the interests of the poor. He visited the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, bringing a message of peace and reconciliation to nations scarred by conflict. His recognition of Africa’s struggles, and his insistence that global powers stop exploiting the continent’s wealth while leaving its people in poverty, will remain a critical part of his legacy.

Pope Francis will forever be remembered for his recent principled and courageous stance on the genocide in Gaza. While the world continues to watch in silence, he boldly called for an immediate ceasefire, demanding that the violence end and that humanitarian aid be allowed to reach those who suffer under Israeli apartheid and occupation. His voice cut through the global cowardice and hypocrisy that has enabled the slaughter of innocent Palestinians.

In a symbolic gesture of moral protest, Pope Francis also recently  refused to meet with representatives of the white supremacist government of the United States of America. Instead, he made sure that these representatives were taught about compassion— exposing their imperial arrogance and their disregard for the lives of the oppressed.

As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, the EFF joins in honouring his legacy.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Leigh-Ann Mathys (National Spokesperson) 082 304 7572

Thato Lebyane (Media Enquiries) 078 304 7572