Cardinal Njue Not Attending Papal Conclave Due to Health Concerns

Conflicting reports have emerged regarding Kenyan Cardinal John Njue's absence from the upcoming papal conclave. While Cardinal Njue publicly stated in interviews that he had not received an official invitation to participate in the election of the next pope, the Archdiocese of Nairobi and the Catholic Church clarified that he was indeed invited, but is unable to attend due to health concerns. Church officials emphasized that the Vatican was informed of his inability to travel, and urged the faithful to pray for his health. Cardinal Njue, age 79, remains eligible to vote in the conclave, but ongoing medical issues have limited his participation in major church events. The situation highlights both the procedural importance of formal invitations and the impact of health on participation in Vatican affairs. Similar health-related absences were noted for other cardinals, reflecting broader challenges faced by aging Church leadership.