Pope attacks ‘tyrants’ during Cameroon visit
BAMENDA, April 16: Pope Leo XIV has condemned what he called a “handful of tyrants” responsible for war and exploitation during a visit to Bamenda in western Cameroon, a region deeply affected by a long-running separatist conflict. Speaking at a peace gathering in the city, the Pope delivered a strong message against the misuse of religion and power, warning that faith should not be used to justify violence or political and military gain. He called for a “decisive change of course” toward peace and the protection of people and natural resources.
The visit drew large, jubilant crowds as residents welcomed the Pope, seeing his arrival as a rare global spotlight on a crisis that has devastated the region for nearly a decade. He met representatives of different faiths, including a traditional chief, a Presbyterian leader, an imam, and a Catholic nun, highlighting interfaith efforts to promote reconciliation.
The conflict in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions began after colonial-era divisions between French and British rule. Tensions escalated into armed rebellion in 2017 when separatists demanded independence, claiming political and economic marginalisation. Since then, more than 6,000 people have been killed and over 600,000 displaced, according to conflict monitors.
During his speech at St. Joseph Cathedral, Leo praised peace initiatives but warned against those who profit from conflict. He said resources and religion were being exploited to fuel violence, describing the situation as one of global injustice driven by “tyrants” and sustained by economic interests tied to arms and resource extraction.
The Pope’s visit came amid a temporary three-day pause in fighting announced by separatist groups to allow safe passage. However, skepticism remains about lasting peace. Some residents and victims expressed doubt that the visit would change the realities on the ground, pointing to years of failed negotiations and stalled mediation efforts.
Church leaders told the Pope that civilians have suffered heavily, with disrupted education, destroyed livelihoods, and widespread violence. Peace talks between the government and separatists have largely stalled since 2022, and the conflict continues despite reduced but persistent violence. The Pope’s visit is seen as a symbolic push to revive international attention and encourage renewed dialogue. (AP)
