- Kenya will not be casting a vote in the upcoming election of a new Pope.
- Cardinal John Njue is attending the conclave in Rome but is ineligible to vote.
- Catholic rules limit voting rights to cardinals under 80 years old.
- This ends a 50-year streak of Kenyan participation in papal elections.
- Cardinal Njue will still attend pre-conclave discussions alongside other global church leaders.
Kenya’s voice in the global Catholic Church will take a backseat during the forthcoming papal election. For the first time since 1973, the country won’t take part in voting for the next leader of the Catholic Church.
Cardinal Njue Present, But Not Voting
Although Cardinal John Njue will be present in Rome during the conclave following the passing of Pope Francis, his role will be limited. At 80 years of age, Cardinal Njue has crossed the age threshold set by the Vatican for those allowed to vote in papal elections.
Cardinal Otunga’s Legacy Marks the End of an Era
Since the appointment of Maurice Cardinal Otunga to the College of Cardinals in 1973, Kenya has consistently contributed to the decision-making process in Vatican leadership. Cardinal Njue’s ineligibility officially brings this half-century-long streak to a pause.
Conversations Continue Behind Closed Doors
Despite his inability to vote, Cardinal Njue will still join in the pre-conclave meetings—an important phase where church leaders reflect on the global state of the Church and consider the qualities required in the next Pope.
