Pope Leo XIV Slams Corruption, Calls Out “Tyrants” During Tense Cameroon Visit

Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong warning to Cameroon’s leadership, demanding an end to deep-rooted corruption and condemning the global arms trade fueling violence in the country.

During a high-profile meeting with 93-year-old President Paul Biya in Yaoundé on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Pontiff did not hold back. Speaking at the presidential palace, he urged authorities to break the “chains of corruption,” warning that graft undermines leadership and destroys public trust.

The Pope later traveled to Bamenda, a major city in Cameroon’s troubled English-speaking regions, where a separatist conflict has raged since 2017. Addressing worshippers at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, he sharply criticized global power players, accusing a “handful of tyrants” of profiting from stolen resources and channeling the money into weapons that worsen conflicts.

The visit comes amid ongoing violence that has claimed over 6,000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands. In a rare move, separatist fighters declared a temporary safe passage for the Pope’s visit. While in Bamenda, he listened to emotional testimonies from victims, including a kidnapped nun and a Muslim leader who recounted attacks on the Mbororo community.

Known for his outspoken stance, Pope Leo XIV’s remarks follow recent criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who labeled him “weak on foreign policy.” The Pope, however, remained firm, reinforcing his message of peace, justice, and accountability.

He also highlighted the vital role of women and young people, describing them as key drivers of peace in a country battling insecurity and governance challenges.

The Cameroon visit is part of the Pope’s 11-day African tour, which will continue with stops in Angola and Equatorial Guinea.