Possible controversy averted: Vatican, archbishop clarify African cardinal’s conclave absence

VATICAN CITY // A potential controversy was swiftly averted May 6 after confusion erupted over Kenyan Cardinal John Njue’s absence from the papal conclave. 

The controversy began when a Kenyan newspaper quoted Cardinal Njue as saying he had “not been invited to the conclave” and was unaware of the reasons for his exclusion, raising questions about the legitimacy of the election process.

However, the Archdiocese of Nairobi quickly clarified the situation. Archbishop Philip Anyolo confirmed that Cardinal Njue was both eligible and had been officially invited to participate in the conclave through the Apostolic Nunciature in Kenya. 

Archbishop Anyolo explained that Cardinal Njue declined the invitation due to health reasons, which made it impossible for him to travel to Rome. The Vatican echoed this explanation, with spokesperson Matteo Bruni stating that the necessary verification had been made, and the response was that Cardinal Njue would not attend for health reasons.

“Cardinal electors are admitted de iure to the Conclave, an invitation is not necessary,” Bruni explained. “In some cases a verification is made by the cardinal dean through the Nunciature. In this case it was done, and the response was negative.”