This archive report was first published on 23 July 2019.
Archbishop Jackson ole Sapit, the leader of the Anglican Church of Kenya, has clarified that church members are free to challenge the election of bishops in court if they feel aggrieved.
Speaking during a tour of Busia County on July 22, 2019, Dr Sapit emphasized that the church has mechanisms in place to resolve leadership disputes, but acknowledged that some members may prefer to seek justice through the courts.
"Election is an emotive issue and because we have opened democratic space, those who may feel dissatisfied with the outcome of the elections are free to seek justice anywhere, including courts," Dr Sapit said.
He noted that the church has a dispute tribunal to resolve election disputes, but added that members rarely seek its intervention.
Dr Sapit's comments come after a series of disputed elections in various dioceses, including Siaya, Kitale, Mombasa, Mount Kenya, and Maseno West.
