President Ramaphosa
By Chris Williams
President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended heartfelt congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, on his historic election as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church — and notably, the first-ever pope from the United States.
Cardinals from around the world gathered in Vatican City this week for a two-day conclave, ultimately electing the 69-year-old native of Chicago, Illinois, to succeed the late Pope Francis. The decision came on Thursday evening, marked by the iconic plume of white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel, signalling to the world that a new pope had been chosen.
“This is a profound moment for the Catholic Church as well as the global community who followed this solemn event with hopeful anticipation,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement posted on the government’s official X account (@GovernmentZA).
Moments after the white smoke signalled his election, Pope Leo XIV appeared before tens of thousands of pilgrims gathered in St Peter’s Square, offering a message that resonated globally: “To all people, wherever they are, to all peoples, to the whole Earth, peace be with you.”
Pope Leo XIV brings to the papacy decades of experience, including more than 20 years of service in Peru. His background reflects a deep commitment to both pastoral care and missionary work in Latin America — a region that continues to shape the global Catholic community.
With approximately 1.4 billion followers, the Catholic Church faces a range of spiritual, political and humanitarian challenges. The election of Pope Leo XIV signals both continuity and transformation, as the Church under his leadership navigates a rapidly evolving global landscape.
About 80% of the cardinal electors in this conclave were appointed by Pope Francis, making it one of the most internationally diverse papal elections in history. Voting members came from 70 countries, contributing to the Church’s efforts to reflect its global identity.
The South African Catholic community and religious leaders across the country are expected to welcome the new pope with prayer and anticipation, as Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate focused on unity, peace, and inclusion.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 103 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: “”Down with the GNU”: Solly Mapaila Slams Ramaphosa and Rejects Government of National Unity at Workers’ Day Rally”
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Central-News-Issue-103.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube