Pope Leo's Pilgrimage: A Call for Justice in Equatorial Guinea

Pope Leo arrived in Equatorial Guinea on Tuesday to complete his Africa tour, emphasizing themes of justice and human dignity. His outspoken criticisms of despotism and inequality have drawn controversy, especially from U.S. President Donald Trump.

Following his arrival from Angola, where he condemned authoritarian exploitation and wealth fraud, Leo paid homage to his predecessor, Pope Francis. Scheduled to meet with President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, Leo's visit aims to stress the importance of governance responsibilities in a country with a 70% Catholic population.

Amidst his intense itinerary, which includes visiting a detention center criticized by Amnesty International and a prayer at a blast site, Leo is advocating for sustained reforms in Equatorial Guinea's justice system, aligned with human rights activists' calls for comprehensive changes.

(With inputs from agencies.)