Africa-Press – Eswatini. Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has left the country for Italy to represent His Majesty King Mswati III and the Nation at the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis, the revered leader of the Catholic Church, who passed away on Easter Monday.
The DPM, who is accompanied by the Minister for Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezi, departed Eswatini this afternoon en route to Vatican City, where global leaders and dignitaries will converge for the funeral service of Pope Francis, scheduled for Saturday, 26 April 2025, at St. Peter’s Square.
The passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88 has sent ripples of grief across the globe. As the head of the Catholic Church, he was not only a spiritual father to over a billion Catholics but also a respected advocate for peace, compassion, and justice. His voice echoed far beyond the Vatican, championing the causes of the poor, the environment, and human dignity.
Deputy Prime Minister Dladla described the journey as a solemn duty, honouring a man who had a unique and respectful relationship with His Majesty King Mswati III.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to all members of the Catholic Church, both in the country and worldwide, on the passing of Pope Francis,” she said before her departure. “It is only fitting that Eswatini, through the directive of His Majesty, be present to pay our final respects to a global icon of faith and humanity.”
The funeral is expected to draw world leaders, clergy, and thousands of mourners from all walks of life—testament to the late Pope’s extraordinary influence and legacy.
As Eswatini stands in solidarity with the global Catholic community, DPM Dladla’s presence at the Vatican signals the nation’s commitment to honouring those who work tirelessly to unite humanity and promote peace.
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