Pope Leo XIV has delivered a strong rebuke of global leaders he described as “tyrants,” accusing them of fueling war and exploitation while urging renewed commitment to peace during a visit to Bamenda, Cameroon.

April 17, 2026; Speaking in the conflict-ridden Anglophone region, the pontiff warned that the world is being “ravaged by a handful of tyrants,” criticizing the misuse of religion, political power, and economic interests to justify violence and instability.
His visit comes amid a long-running separatist conflict in Cameroon that has claimed over 6,000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands since 2017.

During a peace gathering involving Christian and Muslim leaders, Pope Leo praised interfaith cooperation and called for reconciliation, emphasizing that faith should unite rather than divide. He also condemned the prioritisation of military spending over education, healthcare, and humanitarian needs.

The visit briefly prompted a ceasefire by separatist groups, offering a rare moment of calm in a region plagued by violence and distrust.

The Pope’s remarks carry both moral and political weight, highlighting global inequalities and the exploitation of vulnerable regions while reinforcing the urgent need for dialogue and lasting peace.

His message from Bamenda serves as a broader global warning; against leadership driven by conflict, and in favour of unity, justice, and human dignity.