The Catholic Bishops of Africa have expressed “profound shock, sorrow, and indignation” following the violent killing of Bishop Osório Afonso, who was found dead in his episcopal residence in Quelimane, Mozambique.
Describing the killing as a “heinous act,” the bishops said the attack represents not only an assault on a servant of the Gospel but also on the fundamental values of peace, justice, human dignity, and religious freedom.
In a strongly worded statement issued on behalf of the Symposium of the Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, President of SECAM and Archbishop of Kinshasa, condemned the killing in unequivocal terms.
“We strongly and unequivocally condemn this barbaric crime. No religious leader, regardless of faith or denomination, should ever become the target of violence,” the statement read.
The bishops urged the Government of Mozambique and relevant authorities to launch an “immediate, thorough, transparent, and independent investigation” into the killing, calling for all those responsible—whether perpetrators, accomplices, or masterminds—to be identified and brought to justice without delay.
They also appealed for stronger protection measures for religious leaders, places of worship, and humanitarian workers, stressing that religious freedom is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of democratic society.
The statement extended condolences and spiritual solidarity to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Mozambique, the clergy, religious communities, and the faithful of the Diocese of Quelimane and the Archdiocese of Beira, as well as Bishop Afonso’s family and congregation.
The bishops concluded by urging that the tragedy serve as a renewed call for justice, peace, and respect for human life across Mozambique and the African continent.
“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him,” the statement said.
The statement was issued in Accra, Ghana, on June 6, 2026, and signed by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of SECAM.
