Pope in Equatorial Guinea: Moral authority role risks being 'whitewashed & used to legitimise power'
Summary
Pope Leo XIV visited Equatorial Guinea, a country ruled by an authoritarian regime that controls natural resources but has not improved people's lives or human rights. Some experts warn that the Pope’s visit could either highlight injustices and push for change or be used by the government to appear legitimate without real reform.Key Facts
- Pope Leo XIV made a visit to Equatorial Guinea in April 2026.
- Equatorial Guinea is rich in natural resources but suffers from repression and lack of government accountability.
- Human rights lawyer Tutu Alicante said the Pope’s moral authority could be misused by the regime.
- The visit is seen as a chance to spotlight problems but also risks supporting the current rulers.
- The government in Equatorial Guinea excludes many citizens from power and represses dissent.
- Change depends on actions by the Vatican, global media, civil society groups, and citizens.
- The key issue is whether the visit leads to justice and transparency or just maintains the status quo.
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