Pope Leo Criticizes ‘Authoritarians’ and ‘the Rich’ During High-Stakes Angola Visit

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0 April 20, 2026 13:22

In a powerful address delivered in Luanda, Pope Leo issued a stinging rebuke of global inequality and political oppression. Speaking to a massive crowd during the final leg of his four-nation Africa tour, the Pontiff lamented that a significant portion of the global population is currently being “exploited by authoritarians and defrauded by the rich.”

This rhetoric marks a significant shift in the Pope’s diplomatic tone. While previous addresses were characterized by traditional calls for peace, this tour has seen the emergence of a more combative and populist speaking style. The Pope focused heavily on the systemic “economic strangulation” of developing nations, specifically targeting:

• Political Corruption: He urged local leaders to move beyond self-interest and serve the common good.

• Wealth Disparity: Leo criticized international financial systems that prioritize profit over human dignity.

• Social Justice: He reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to being a “voice for the voiceless” in regions plagued by autocratic rule.

Observers note that this “African Manifesto” suggests the Vatican is pivoting toward a more direct confrontation with global power structures, positioning itself as a primary advocate for the Global South.

Channel: Reuters