The Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi has responded to various enquiries concerning whether Kenya’s Cardinal, John Njue, will be present during the Conclave (selection of a new Pope), which is expected to commence on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

In a statement issued by the Archdiocese through the office of Archbishop Philip Anyolo, Cardinal Njue received an official invitation from the Vatican, through the Apostolic Nunciature in Kenya.

However, due to Njue’s current health condition, the Apostolic Nuncio communicated back to the office of the Holy See in Vatican, expressing their regrets that Cardinal Njue would not be able to join the College of Cardinals in the much-anticipated exercise.

“The Apostolic Nuncio, in concurrence with the Office of the Archbishop of Nairobi, duly communicated to the competent office of the Holy See that, owing to his current health condition, His Eminence John Cardinal Njue will be unable to travel to Rome and take part in the Conclave,” read the statement signed by Archbishop Philip Anyolo.

Anyolo urged the faithful to pray for the Cardinal electors as they undertake the solemn duty of electing the late Pope Francis’ successor. He also called for prayers for the good health of His Eminence John Cardinal Njue.

The 79-year-old Njue was first made Bishop on 9 June and was appointed Bishop of Embu by Pope John Paul II. He was later made Cardinal in 2007 by Pope Benedict XVI.