Pope Urges Cameroon to Tackle Corruption for Lasting Peace
Pontiff Challenges Cameroonian Leadership
Pope Leo XIV has issued a forthright challenge to Cameroon's leadership, asserting that the nation must "break the chains of corruption" for peace and justice to truly prevail. Speaking at the presidential palace in Yaoundé, the pontiff addressed President Paul Biya, whose administration has faced considerable criticism over allegations of corruption, poor governance, and a failure to address ongoing security issues.
The 93-year-old President Biya, who secured an eighth term last year in a disputed election, listened without apparent reaction to the Pope's unusually blunt address. Pope Leo stressed that "hearts must be set free from an idolatrous thirst for profit."
Addressing the Anglophone Crisis
The Pope is currently visiting Cameroon's English-speaking regions, an area marred by a near decade-long separatist insurgency. He is expected to lead a Mass for peace in Bamenda, a city at the epicentre of the conflict which has resulted in at least 6,000 deaths and displaced numerous individuals.
Alluding to the brutal conflict, Pope Leo stated, "Security is a priority, but it must always be exercised with respect for human rights." Anglophone separatists, who have been battling government forces since 2017 over perceived marginalisation by the Francophone-dominated government, announced a period of "safe travel passage" to facilitate the pontiff's visit, and enthusiastic crowds have lined the streets to welcome him.
Hope for the Future: Youth and Women
Highlighting the potential of the nation's younger generation, Pope Leo described young people as the hope of Cameroon and the Church, stressing the importance of "investing in their education, training, and entrepreneurship" to prevent the loss of talent and the spread of social ills. He also advocated for the full recognition of women's voices in decision-making processes, acknowledging their role as "tireless builders of peace" despite often being victims of injustice.
The Archbishop of Bamenda, Andrew Nkea, expressed hope that the pontiff's visit would bring solace to those affected by the conflict, stating, "I can confidently say now is the time for peace." Peace remains the central theme of Pope Leo's 11-day tour, which will also include visits to Angola and Equatorial Guinea, following his historic stop in Algeria.
