Spain has announced three days of national mourning following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
According to the AFP, the country’s Justice Minister, Félix Bolaños, made the declaration during a televised statement on Monday.
“We mourn the passing of a good man and a great Pope,” Bolaños said. “The Government of Spain will declare three days of official mourning in his honour.”
The minister commended Pope Francis for his progressive and reform-oriented leadership during his 12-year tenure, highlighting his enduring impact on global issues.
“Pope Francis dedicated his life to the marginalized, to those without a voice,” he noted.
“He was deeply committed to fighting inequality and injustice, addressing climate change, and championing the cause of those on the periphery.”
Bolaños added that Spain, a traditionally Catholic country, deeply admired the Pope’s values and work.
“We felt close to his mission, especially his unwavering advocacy for peace,” he stated. “With his papacy, the Church began a journey that must continue.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, was the first Jesuit and the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from global leaders and religious figures alike.
