Bangladesh declares three-day of mourning over Pope Francis' death

Bangladesh has announced a three-day national mourning to honor the death of Pope Francis, who died on April 21. He was 88.

A formal notification issued by the Cabinet Division on April 23 states that Bangladesh will observe state mourning from Thursday through Saturday.

During this time, the national flag will be flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government, autonomous, and educational institutions across the country. The directive also extends to all Bangladesh embassies and missions abroad, where flags will also be lowered in tribute.

Special prayer services are being arranged throughout Bangladesh, reflecting the nation’s respect for Pope Francis’ enduring legacy as a global advocate for peace, interfaith dialogue, and social justice.

To represent Bangladesh at the funeral, Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus will travel to Rome from Doha on April 25. He is expected to attend the final rites and offer condolences on behalf of the Bangladeshi people.

The funeral ceremony will be held on April 26 at the Vatican, preceded by three days of public viewing at St. Peter's Basilica beginning April 23. A massive turnout of mourners is anticipated, with thousands expected to pay their last respects to the first pontiff from Latin America.

Pope Francis was elected in 2013; he was celebrated for his progressive stance on key global issues, including climate change, poverty, and inclusivity within the Church. His passing marks the end of a transformative era in Vatican history.

Condolences and messages of solidarity have poured in from across the globe, including Bangladesh, where the Pope was admired as a symbol of compassion, humility, and unity among faiths.