Slovakia Could Hold State Mourning on Saturday Due to Pope's Death

Bratislava, April 22 (TASR) - State mourning could be held in Slovakia on Saturday (April 26) due to the death of Pope Francis, according to the document submitted by Premier Robert Fico (Smer-SD) to the meeting of the cabinet, which will decide on its declaration on Wednesday (April 23). "Pope Francis's extraordinary visit to Slovakia in 2021 left a message that had a significant impact on the public life of the whole of society. The declaration of state mourning is a sign of great respect for this important figure and will contribute to a dignified commemoration in Slovakia," reads the proposal. The prime minister proposes to declare state mourning on Saturday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. State flags could also be lowered to half-mast on this day. Pope Francis died on Monday (April 21) morning at the age of 88. He had been the head of the Catholic Church since March 2013. am