Pope Prays for Bangui School Tragedy Victims and Appeals for Peace

• Pope Leo XIV prays for victims of Bangui school tragedy.
• At least 29 students have died and over 260 injured.
• An electrical explosion caused panic during final exams.

Pope Offers Prayers for School Tragedy Victims

Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sorrow as he addressed the congregation at St. Peter’s Square, focusing his remarks on the tragedy that struck Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui, Central African Republic. In the wake of an incident that resulted in the deaths of at least 29 students and injuries to over 260 others, the Holy Father assured that he would keep the victims and their families in his prayers. “I assure my prayers for the community of the Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui, in mourning for the tragic accident that caused numerous deaths and injuries among students,” he stated, emphasizing the church’s call for solace for affected families and the broader community.

Details Emerge About the Tragic Incident

The chaotic scene unfolded as an electrical explosion reportedly ignited panic among the large group of students who were gathered for their final examinations. With approximately 5,000 students in attendance, the stampede led to a devastating number of casualties, with many occurring on the spot. The Ministry of Health noted that about 260 people are currently receiving treatment in various medical facilities, underscoring the widespread impact of this sorrowful event. The incidents began when power was being restored to a malfunctioning electrical transformer within the school grounds, which led to the ensuing panic and devastation that followed.

Pope Appeals for Global Peace Through Dialogue

In a broader context, Pope Leo XIV also used this opportunity to reflect on global conflicts. As he urged people to turn their thoughts to those caught in the tragedies of war worldwide, he called for renewed diplomatic efforts in seeking peace. “Brothers and sisters, let us continue to pray that weapons may fall silent everywhere and that peace may be pursued through dialogue,” he implored, emphasizing the church’s stance on the necessity of pursuing dialogue rather than violence. His remarks resonate in light of ongoing global conflicts, and serve as a reminder of the urgent need for peace.

Pope Leo XIV has expressed his condolences following the tragic incident at Barthélémy Boganda High School, where at least 29 students lost their lives amidst chaos triggered by an electrical failure. The Pope’s call for prayers not only honors the victims and their families but also highlights the need for dialogue in resolving conflicts across the world. As he implores for peace, this incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of both community support in times of crisis and the global pursuit of diplomacy.