Pope Leo XIV Condemns ‘Tyrants’, Exploitation During High-Security Visit to Cameroon

Pope Leo XIV delivered a strong rebuke of global leaders he described as “tyrants” during a high-security visit to conflict-hit regions of Cameroon, calling out violence, corruption and the exploitation of Africa’s resources.

Speaking in the northwestern city of Bamenda—the epicentre of a nearly decade-long separatist conflict—the pope warned that the world is being “ravaged by a handful of tyrants” who misuse religion and power for political and economic gain. He made the remarks during a solemn gathering at Saint Joseph’s Cathedral, where he also led prayers for peace.

The visit comes amid heightened tensions with Donald Trump’s administration, following criticism from Washington over the pope’s outspoken stance on global conflicts, including the Iran war. His latest comments are likely to deepen that divide.

Despite the heavy military escort and reinforced security measures, thousands of worshippers gathered to welcome the pontiff, celebrating his arrival with songs and traditional instruments. In a symbolic gesture, he released white doves, describing the region as a “bloodstained yet fertile land” suffering from prolonged violence.

Cameroon’s anglophone regions have been gripped by unrest since 2016, when protests over marginalisation were violently suppressed by the government of President Paul Biya. The conflict has since escalated into an armed separatist insurgency, with thousands killed and many more displaced.

In his address, the pope also criticised what he called the ongoing “plunder” of Africa, accusing both foreign and domestic actors of exploiting the continent’s vast natural resources while fuelling instability and conflict.

Earlier, during a reception at the presidential palace, he urged Cameroon’s leadership to confront corruption and human rights abuses, calling for a moral reckoning at the highest levels of power.

The visit marks the first papal trip to Cameroon since Pope Benedict XVI travelled to the country in 2009, and is part of a broader African tour aimed at promoting peace and social justice.

Security was significantly tightened throughout Bamenda for the visit, though separatist groups announced a temporary truce to allow for the pope’s safe passage.

Following his stop in Bamenda, the pontiff is scheduled to hold a mass in the economic hub of Douala before continuing his tour to Angola and Equatorial Guinea.

While his message resonated with many on the ground, the pope’s unusually direct criticism of global and local powers underscores the challenges facing efforts to bring lasting peace to the region.