Pope Leo condemns inmate conditions on tour of infamous Equatorial Guinea prison
Summary
Pope Leo XIV visited a prison in Bata, Equatorial Guinea, and spoke about the poor conditions and the need to respect the dignity of inmates. His comments came during a rare public criticism of the country’s justice and prison system, which has been accused of human rights abuses.Key Facts
- Pope Leo XIV toured Bata prison as part of his trip to Africa on April 22, 2026.
- He addressed around 600 prisoners, including about 30 women.
- Prisoners wore uniforms and had shaved heads; some wore facemasks.
- The pope urged respect for human dignity and fairness in justice.
- Equatorial Guinea’s prisons have faced criticism for overcrowding, torture, and poor hygiene.
- A 2023 U.S. report detailed harsh prison conditions in Equatorial Guinea.
- President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, in power since 1979, attended a service with the pope.
- Human rights groups say prisoners often suffer from unfair trials and disappearances.
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