NZ Prime Minister Luxon mourns Pope Francis, highlights legacy of social justice

The world is reeling from the passing of Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 in his Vatican residence on Easter Monday.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, currently in Britain for a scheduled meeting with King Charles, has joined a chorus of international leaders expressing their condolences. However, the timing of the Pope’s death has added a somber undertone to Luxon’s high-profile trip.


Luxon, in a social media post, remembered Pope Francis as "a man of humility," highlighting his dedication to "the vulnerable, social justice, and interfaith dialogue."

Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters echoed these sentiments, conveying the New Zealand government's "deepest condolences" to the Holy See and the global Catholic community.

The news has prompted widespread reactions from New Zealand's political spectrum. Labour leader Chris Hipkins acknowledged the Pope's "deep compassion and an unwavering commitment to social justice," while former Prime Minister Helen Clark recognized his "dedication to peace and justice" and his historic position as the first Latin American Pope.

The timing of Pope Francis's death, just hours after his public Easter Sunday appearance in St. Peter's Square, has raised questions about the rapid decline in his health.

Recent hospitalizations for bronchitis and pneumonia had already fueled concerns. The Vatican's disclosure of his passing, following a brief meeting with US Vice-President JD Vance, has sparked a wave of global mourning.

Luxon's presence in London, intended for a meeting with King Charles, has now taken on a dual significance.

While the pre-planned engagement remains a key focus of his trip, the Prime Minister is now also expected to navigate the delicate balance of representing New Zealand's condolences on the international stage.