JAKARTA - Chairman of the House of Representatives' Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) Mardani Ali Sera expressed his deep condolences for the death of Pope Francis. According to him, the Pope's struggle in defending Palestine and the oppressed must also be continued.
Mardani said Pope Francis' departure was a huge loss to the figure of a cross-border and religious humanitarian fighter. Not only for Catholics, but also for all Indonesian people and the world who care about the values of justice and humanity.
"I personally am very surprised and saddened. It feels like it was only yesterday that we welcomed him with joy in Indonesia. His presence brought a message of peace and a strong human spirit," said Mardani, Monday, April 21.
According to Mardani, Pope Francis' departure was even more touching because it was not long after his visit to Indonesia. At that time, people across religions, including Muslims, took to the streets to welcome the Pope's arrival with joy.
"Deep sadness for humanity. The death of a humanitarian fighter who always speaks up so that the poor, those who are oppressed and those who are themselves to always be guarded, accompanied and assisted," said Mardani.
Pope Francis' historical visit to Indonesia took place in September last year. At that time, Pope Francis was in Indonesia for several days and carried out a number of religious and social activities.
Pope Francis is present in Indonesia not only as the supreme leader of the Catholic Church, but also as a symbol of brotherhood and tolerance in the country that adheres to Bhineka Tunggal Ika.
The Pope's visit became a rare momentum after a 35-year wait, which was greeted with great enthusiasm by the people of Indonesia.
Mardani assessed that the moment of welcoming the Pope from interfaith communities in Indonesia shows that the spirit of love and solidarity that Pope Francis stands for really lives in the midst of the people.
Pope Francis is a symbol that humanity can unite us. We must continue his struggle. The world needs more people like him," he continued.
Mardani said during his lifetime, Pope Francis was known as a consistent figure standing on the side of victims of injustice, regardless of background. Pope Francis also often spoke loudly to the Palestinian people and accompanied the poor to street children.
"His loss is the loss of our common conscience. He is not only a defender of Palestine, but also a protector for those who are poor, neglected, and oppressed. We have lost a human fighter," said Mardani.
Therefore, Mardani hopes that Pope Francis' struggle during his life will continue. Including defending the independence of Palestine and the oppressed on earth.
"Goodbye Pope Francis, we must continue the struggle to defend Palestine and all those who are oppressed," he said.
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