Date: April 16, 2026 Ref #: CSCD/0416/2026
Press Release |
Immediate Publication
*Subject* : *Papal Visit to Bamenda: A Defining Moral Call for Justice, Dialogue, and an End to War*
The Government of the Federal Republic of Ambazonia acknowledges the historic Apostolic Visit of Pope Leo XIV to Bamenda on April 16, 2026, and welcomes the clear and principled message delivered to the people and leadership of the region.
In two landmark addresses—at the Peace Meeting in St. Joseph’s Cathedral and during the Pontifical Mass at Bamenda Airport—the Holy Father issued a firm and unambiguous call for an end to violence, the restoration of human dignity, and the urgent pursuit of a just and lasting peace.
The Government notes with particular significance the following key elements of the Pope’s message:
1. *Moral Accountability for the Continuation of War*
The Holy Father’s condemnation of “masters of war” and those who exploit conflict for personal or political gain reinforces the urgent need for accountability. The deliberate perpetuation of violence against civilian populations cannot be justified under any circumstance.
2. *Rejection of the Manipulation of Religion and Power*
The Pope’s warning against the misuse of religion and the name of God for political or military purposes underscores a critical truth: peace cannot be built on deception, coercion, or moral compromise.
3. *A Clear Call for Dialogue Over Force*
The insistence on moving from the “table of rearmament” to the “table of dialogue and mediation” aligns with the long-standing position of the Ambazonian people that sustainable peace must be rooted in genuine negotiation, not imposed solutions.
4. *Justice as the Foundation of Peace*
By affirming those who “hunger and thirst for justice,” the Holy Father has elevated the central issue of this conflict: the legitimate demand for dignity, rights, and recognition. Peace without justice is neither credible nor sustainable.
The Government further welcomes the recognition of the vital role of youth and women as essential architects of peace and reconstruction, and calls for their meaningful inclusion in all future processes.
This visit marks a significant moment in the international moral acknowledgment of the suffering endured by the people of Ambazonia. It reinforces the principle that the resolution of this conflict must be measured not by rhetoric, but by concrete actions that restore justice, protect human life, and open the path to a negotiated settlement.
The Government of the Federal Republic of Ambazonia remains committed to a peaceful and just resolution and calls on all parties to heed this message with sincerity and urgency.
The time for words has passed. The time for action is now.
Respectfully,
Dr. Martin Mungwa, Ph.D., F. ASCE.
Commissioned Secretary of State of Communications & Diplomacy
Government of the Southern Cameroons (Ambazonia) in-exile Date: 04/16/2026
