Pope Leo XIV Arrives in Cameroon for Peace Visit

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Yaoundé, Cameroon's capital, on Wednesday for a three-day visit aimed at promoting peace amid the country's ongoing separatist conflict and addressing issues of corruption and political authority. The trip marks the second stop on the American pontiff's first tour of Africa, following two days in Algeria, with subsequent visits planned to Angola and Equatorial Guinea.

The 70-year-old pope, whose native English-speaking background adds symbolism to his journey, began his stay with a private meeting at the presidential palace with Paul Biya, the 93-year-old leader who has ruled since 1982 and secured an eighth term in a disputed October election last year. Opposition figures, including rival candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, have rejected the results, alleging fraud and calling for their nullification. Protests in cities like Douala have persisted for months, involving barricades and clashes that have strained the economy.

After the meeting with Biya, Leo addressed government officials, civil servants, and diplomats, emphasizing Catholic teachings on ethical governance. He then visited a Catholic-run orphanage. The Vatican highlighted themes of combating...