A leadership dispute in the Kapenguria Diocese of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has escalated despite a valid court order guiding governance.
Tensions have reportedly been fueled by secretive actions by some leaders, including irregular elections and perceived favoritism in appointing church officials.
Church members allege that local AGM elections were conducted in secrecy, bypassing annual meetings meant to involve all 26 parishes.
Names of officials were forwarded as if elected, raising concerns over legitimacy and transparency. Members have called on the Archbishop and national church authorities to intervene and ensure adherence to church constitutions, canons, and governing laws.
Officials also questioned the role of police in enforcing the court order, noting that certain individuals continued acting against it under police protection. Members urged accountability and proper enforcement of church governance rules to restore fairness and unity.
Bishop Simon Onyango, the Archbishop’s Commissary overseeing the diocese, said the challenges began after Kapenguria was declared a full diocese.
He explained that prior leadership under a Suffragan Bishop aimed to prepare the area for independent operations. Complications arose when leaders from Kitale were moved to Kapenguria, causing divisions and tensions among the clergy.
Efforts to reconcile opposing factions have been hampered by disrupted meetings and repeated court cases, which delayed dialogue.
Onyango noted that despite these challenges, key church activities, including confirmation ceremonies, have continued. He emphasized the need for reconciliation while warning that disruptions would be addressed to maintain church order.
The ongoing crisis underscores the delicate balance between leadership, reconciliation, and order as Kapenguria transitions from suffragan oversight to a fully-fledged diocese.
Church members and leaders stress the need for transparency, accountability, and unity to ensure the diocese emerges stronger and cohesive.
