Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday called on Cameroon’s authorities to examine their conscience and break what he described as the “chains of corruption,” during the first day of his official visit to the country.
After being welcomed by large crowds lining the streets, the pontiff delivered an unusually direct address to officials in the capital, Yaoundé, where he urged leaders to prioritize justice, peace, and accountability.
His audience included President Paul Biya, 93, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982 and whose government has faced repeated accusations of corruption and political repression.
“Security is a priority, but it must always be exercised with respect for human rights,” the pope said in Biya’s presence, referring to the government’s crackdown on protests following the disputed re-election for an eighth term in October.
He added that public authorities must serve as bridges rather than sources of division, even in times of insecurity.
Civil society groups have recently condemned what they described as “an unprecedented period of repression” following the elections, calling for the release of political prisoners. One activist group reported that out of nearly 2,782 detainees, more than 2,600 have not been sentenced.
“It is time to examine our conscience and take a bold leap forward,” the pope said, reiterating his call for reforms.
“In order for peace and justice to prevail, the chains of corruption must be broken,” he added.
In response, President Biya told diplomats and officials that “the world needs the message of peace” brought by Pope Leo XIV.
The papal visit comes as Cameroon continues to struggle with long-standing governance challenges, including corruption concerns that have placed the country low on global transparency rankings.
The country has also faced criticism over the president’s frequent extended stays abroad, which opposition figures say have cost public funds significant sums.
The Pope also urged an end to the separatist conflict in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions, where tensions remain high. He is expected to continue his visit under tight security.
