As Anglican Church prepares for new archbishop, here's what to know about the selection process

The Anglican Church of Rwanda is expected to elect a new archbishop, with the current archbishop, Laurent Mbanda, set to retire unless his tenure is extended again. Mbanda, 71, has led the church since 2018. It is understood that the church's House of Bishops, made up of bishops from its 13 dioceses, has held multiple meetings to prepare for the election of the next archbishop. ALSO READ: Senate President commends role of Anglican Church in national transformation Traditionally, the election is conducted in a private meeting where the bishops vote from among themselves before announcing the winner. In the current race, there are three bishops. Who is eligible to become archbishop? To qualify for the position, a bishop must be at least 55 years old but not older than 60, and must have served as a diocesan bishop for at least five years. Archbishops and bishops are ordinarily required to retire at the age of 65, unless an exception is granted. Who could become the next archbishop? Based on the age and experience requirements, three bishops currently qualify: Bishop Manasseh Gahima of Gahini Diocese, Bishop Nathan Rusengo of Kigali Diocese, and Bishop Assiel Musabyimana of Kigeme Diocese. Why was Archbishop Mbanda's tenure extended? Mbanda was due to retire at 65, but he has remained in office until the age of 71 after his tenure was extended. The reasons for extending an archbishop's term may not be made public. However, extensions may be granted to allow an archbishop to complete important projects or responsibilities. Currently, Mbanda also serves as the chairman of the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), a position he assumed in April 2023. His leadership role there might be a factor in allowing him to remain in office as the archbishop of Rwanda for slightly longer, so that he could complete his term at GAFCON in 2028. Mbanda was elected Archbishop of Rwanda in 2018 after serving as Bishop of Shyira Diocese. He succeeded Archbishop Onesphore Rwaje, who had retired. Before becoming archbishop, Mbanda also served as vice president of Compassion International.

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As Anglican Church prepares for new archbishop, here's what to know about the selection process