Prominent African Catholic priest has expressed deep concerns over the significant financial support former U.S. President Donald Trump received after his conviction in a hush money trial, suggesting this response reflects a decline in fundamental moral values.
Father Humphrey Tatah Mbuy of Cameroon, serving as the director of communications for his country’s bishops conference, voiced his dismay on June 2. He highlighted the rapid mobilization of $52 million for Trump as indicative of a broader moral decay.
“After the former President of the United States, Donald Trump, was found guilty of 34 counts of felony, his supporters took pride in less than six hours to collect a whopping $52 million for his support, as if to tell the world and its children that it doesn’t matter any crime anyone commits, money talks,” Mbuy said, as reported by Crux on June 3, 2024.
Father Mbuy’s reflections, titled ‘𝘍𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘘𝘶𝘢𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘴 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘮’ (a Latin phrase meaning “faith seeking understanding”), explored the troubling implications of both Trump’s reaction to his verdict and the enthusiastic backing from his supporters. He stressed that this behavior undermines the foundational moral principles society should uphold.
Donald Trump in Courtroom
Former President Donald Trump sits in the courtroom for his trial at the Manhattan criminal court, Tuesday, May 21, 2024. Photo: Michael M. Santiago/AP
“The days are gone when we expected people to show remorse and shame for what they have done, and to indicate that deep within, there is a desire to change,” Mbuy lamented.
“Our world seems to have been built on the premise that money, and money alone talks or controls the world,” Mbuy said. “Perhaps the case of Donald Trump is so pertinent because it has been given too much media coverage, but what gives us the shiver is the fact that in our world today, evil no longer frightens, sin has lost its guilt, and basic moral values no longer seem to matter.”
Mbuy also highlighted the negative impact this case may have on young people, warning that it sets a perilous example.
“This behavior is dangerous for the mental well-being and the proper formation of younger generations that are coming after us,” he stated.
Trump Outside Trial
Former President Donald Trump is pictured outside his criminal trial in New York City on May 28, 2024.
He elaborated on the potential consequences of this shift in moral perception, noting that the absence of guilt and remorse for wrongdoing is already evident in the behavior of children and teenagers. Mbuy pointed to rising instances of disrespect and violence in homes and schools as evidence of this troubling trend.
“Because no one seems to feel guilty of sin anymore, we can already see what is happening in our homes, and in our schools: unruly and frighteningly rude children, ready to attack and kill parents and teachers with ease and without remorse,” he said.
Mbuy’s comments underscore a broader concern about the erosion of ethical standards in contemporary society. His critique extends beyond the specifics of the Trump case, touching on a global issue of how financial power and media influence can distort moral judgment.
As the world grapples with complex social and political challenges, voices like Mbuy’s serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding basic moral values. His perspective invites reflection on how society can better balance the allure of financial gain with the imperative of ethical conduct.
