Pope Leo criticizes colonization of minerals, 'lust for power' in Equatorial Guinea

PBS NewsHour
by Nicole Winfield, Associated Press
April 21, 2026
2 min read

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Pope Leo XIV criticized the "colonization" of minerals and "lust for power" in Equatorial Guinea.

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Pope Leo XIV has denounced the "colonization" of minerals and the "lust for power" in Equatorial Guinea. This criticism from the Pontiff highlights concerns about resource exploitation and governance in the African nation. The Pope's statement suggests a moral condemnation of practices perceived as unjust or exploitative in the region. This intervention by the head of the Catholic Church often draws international attention to human rights and economic issues in affected countries.

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