DPM departs for Pope Francis' funeral


Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla departed the Kingdom this afternoon en route to Vatican City, where she will represent His Majesty King Mswati III and the Nation at the funeral service of His Holiness Pope Francis.

Accompanied by the Minister for Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezi, the Deputy Prime Minister is expected to attend the historic event at St. Peter’s Square on Saturday, 26 April 2025. The late Pontiff passed away on Easter Monday, 21 April, at the age of 88.


The funeral of Pope Francis, the revered leader of the Catholic Church, will follow a series of solemn rites, including the sealing of his coffin during a liturgical ceremony to be held in St. Peter’s Basilica on the evening of Friday, 25 April. This rite will be led by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.

Speaking ahead of her departure, the DPM underscored the significance of His Majesty’s longstanding relationship with the late Pope: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to all members of the Catholic Church, both in the country and worldwide, on the passing of Pope Francis.”

The visit underscores the Kingdom’s respect for global religious leadership and highlights the strong ties between the Monarchy and the Vatican.



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