Confusion has rocked the Catholic Church hierarchy in Kitui following widespread reports claiming that Rev. Fr. John Mbua Mwandi had been appointed the new Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitui, in what some church insiders now view as a possible leak of unconfirmed information.
The reports, which circulated online and on social media platforms, sparked excitement among sections of the Catholic faithful before questions began emerging over their authenticity.
A source who spoke to Channel 15 News on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to the media dismissed the reports as “not official,” cautioning the public against treating the information as a confirmed Vatican announcement.
The source further revealed that the Catholic website which had initially published the story has since pulled it down, deepening uncertainty surrounding the alleged appointment.
At the center of the confusion is the absence of any official communication from the Vatican Press Office, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), or the Catholic Diocese of Kitui confirming the appointment.
Attempts by Channel 15 News to reach , the former Bishop of Kitui and current Apostolic Administrator, for comment were unsuccessful by the time of publication.
The development has triggered intense debate among Catholic faithful in Kitui, with some questioning whether the reports were prematurely published before official Church procedures were concluded, while others termed the claims misleading.
Church appointments, especially episcopal nominations, are traditionally announced officially through the Vatican before being communicated to local dioceses and the faithful.
Until such communication is issued, uncertainty is likely to continue surrounding the alleged appointment of Rev. Fr. John Mbua Mwandi.
Channel 15 News will continue following the matter and provide updates once official clarification is issued by the relevant Church authorities.
