# Pope Leo has urged authorities in Equatorial Guinea not to use the justice system just to punish, but also to protect society, after criticising how prisoners are treated. After visiting a jail known for its dire conditions, he said true justice seeks not so much to punish as to help rebuild the lives of victims, offenders and communities. Rights groups say the prison in Bata is used to deny opponents their freedom. Equatorial Guinea, often criticised for its human rights record, is Leo’s final stop on a four-nation tour of Africa.
Pope Leo criticises Equatorial Guinea prisons as he winds up Africa tour