# The DA has extended condolences to Catholics worldwide following the death of Pope Francis at age of 88 yesterday. DA leader John Steenhuisen praised the Pope’s progressive leadership and compassion for the marginalised. Steenhuisen noted that Francis, as both head of state of Vatican City and leader of the Holy See, consistently advocated for peace and tolerance. The pontiff who suffered from pneumonia after years of respiratory illness, made his final public appearance for Easter Sunday in St Peter’s Square on Sunday.
DA extends condolences on passing of Pope Francis