Pope takes on those "“exploited by authoritarians and defrauded by the rich”

Independent, UK - Pope Leo has delivered a forceful condemnation of global injustices during his ongoing four-nation Africa tour, lamenting that many people are “exploited by authoritarians and defrauded by the rich”. This marks an ongoing shift in his public sermons, showcasing a new, more outspoken style.

Addressing worshippers at a Mass in Saurimo, near the Democratic Republic of Congo border, the first US pope – who has previously drawn the ire of President Donald Trump – said that violence and oppression contradict the Christian message.

He declared: “Every form of oppression, violence, exploitation and dishonesty negates the resurrection of Christ”, referring to the core belief of Christianity that Jesus rose from the dead after being crucified.