Pope Leo XIV arrived in Cameroon on Wednesday, marking a significant Pope Leo XIV Cameroon visit focused on combating corruption and urging President Paul Biya to wield authority through legitimate service and transparency.
- Pope Leo XIV called for a “bold leap forward” in public finance transparency and the inclusion of civil society and women in decision-making.
- English-speaking separatists declared a three-day pause in fighting to ensure safe travel for the pontiff.
- The visit includes a planned “peace meeting” on Thursday in the conflict-affected city of Bamenda.
During an address at the presidential palace, the American pope told President Biya and government authorities that the “chains of corruption” must be broken for peace and justice to prevail. He stated that hearts must be freed from an “idolatrous thirst for profit.”
President Biya, 93, is the world’s oldest leader and has held power since 1982. He sat passively during the French-language speech, while Cameroonian television halted its live feed for portions of the address.
Key Goals of the Pope Leo XIV Cameroon Visit
The Vatican indicated that the visit is part of a four-nation African tour intended to address authoritarianism. Leo urged Biya to integrate civil society organizations into daily life and recognize the role of women and young people in rebuilding the social fabric.
Quoting St. Augustine, the pope reminded political leaders that those who rule should serve those they command, acting out of a sense of duty to others rather than a love of power.
Political and Economic Tension
The visit comes amid political instability. Biya recently signed a bill reintroducing the vice president position, which the opposition claims further strengthens his hold on power. Additionally, rival Issa Tchiroma Bakary has contested the results of the Oct. 12 election that gave Biya an eighth term.
Economic disparities also featured prominently in the pope’s message. While Cameroon has vast reserves of oil, gold, diamonds, and cobalt, rights groups and the Church say profits are largely captured by foreign companies and a small national elite.
Leo insisted that transparency in managing public resources is essential to restoring trust, noting that the current status quo cannot remain.
Separatist Conflict and Peace Efforts
Since 2017, English-speaking separatists have fought to break away from the French-speaking majority. The International Crisis Group reports that the conflict has killed more than 6,000 people and displaced over 600,000 others.
In honor of the “profound spiritual importance” of the visit, the Unity Alliance—a coalition of separatist groups—announced a three-day pause in fighting to allow pilgrims and dignitaries to travel safely.
The visit will culminate in a “peace meeting” on Thursday in Bamenda, a city heavily impacted by separatist violence. President Biya told the pope that the world requires a message of peace, forgiveness, and love to replace “the voice of arms.”
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