Story by Oleen Ndori, Foreign Desk Editor
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has described the late Pope Francis as an embodiment of good morals, saying his theological insight has uplifted spiritual consciousness across the globe.
In a statement, President Mnangagwa said as the world reflects, with reverence, on the life and legacy of a devoted servant of the Apostolic See, Zimbabweans are also praying that the Almighty God grants eternal rest to Pope Francis’ soul.
He also consoled the entire Catholic family, saying it should find strength and comfort in the Lord.
Meanwhile, the funeral of the late Pope will take place this Saturday, with his body set to be taken to St Peter’s Basilica this Wednesday morning, where it will lie in state.
The Vatican has also released images of the Pope in an open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hands.
Streams of people have begun visiting the church where the Pope is expected to be laid to rest at the weekend.
The pontiff’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from Catholics and leaders from across the globe.
Pope Francis died at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, from a stroke and heart failure.
He returned to the residence to continue his recovery after suffering from bilateral pneumonia.
Born in Argentina, the late pontiff was the first Roman Catholic Church leader from Latin America.
On May 5, College of Cardinals, comprised of senior Catholic clergy, will elect the next pope in a papal conclave in the Sistine Chapel and deliberates on potential successors.
There are currently more than 240 cardinals worldwide, but only those below the age of 80 can vote to elect a new Pope.
Black smoke signals that no decision has been made, while white smoke means a new Pope has been elected.
Once the Pope is elected, a top cardinal announces his name from Saint Peter’s Basilica.
