Cameroon Separatists Declare Three-Day Ceasefire for Papal Visit
An alliance of separatist groups in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions has announced a three-day ceasefire to allow safe movement of civilians and visitors during a visit by Pope Leo.
The temporary truce, described as a “safe travel passage,” will run from April 15 to 17 across areas the separatists refer to as Ambazonian territory. The pope is expected to visit the Anglophone city of Bamenda on April 16 as part of his 10-day African tour, which includes Algeria, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.
The alliance said its fighters had been instructed to ensure the safety of civilians, pilgrims, dignitaries, and the pope’s entourage during the visit, describing the move as a humanitarian gesture.
A long-running conflict between separatist militias and government forces in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions has claimed thousands of lives since 2017.
Spokesperson Lucas Asu said the ceasefire reflects a commitment to protecting human life and allowing people to participate in the papal visit without fear, emphasizing its spiritual importance.
Cameroon’s government has yet to respond to the announcement. Separatist leaders also called on all parties to respect the ceasefire, though similar past efforts have not always been fully observed.
