The Catholic Diocese of Kitui has officially established a Diocesan Tribunal of the First Instance, following authorization granted by the Apostolic Signatura.
The diocesan tribunal of first instance exercises the judicial power of the bishop by judging contentious, penal, and marriage nullity cases, safeguarding due process, issuing canonical sentences, and serving the pastoral good of justice in the Church.
In a decree addressed to priests, religious, and the lay faithful of the Diocese, Bishop Joseph Mwongela announced that the tribunal has been lawfully erected and is competent to hear and judge cases in accordance with the norms of the Code of Canon Law.
The Bishop noted that the establishment of the tribunal forms part of his pastoral and canonical responsibility to ensure the proper administration of justice within the Church. With effect from February 2026, the Diocesan Tribunal of the First Instance of Kitui will exercise judicial competence as provided by law (cf. canons 1419 §1; 1420; 1721).
The decree further states that the Metropolitan Tribunal of Nairobi shall serve as the Tribunal of the Second Instance (appellate tribunal) for cases judged at the Kitui Diocesan Tribunal, in accordance with canon 1438, 1°.
Bishop Mwongela called upon all concerned to take note of the decree and ensure its faithful observance, emphasizing that its purpose is the good order of ecclesial discipline and the salvation of souls, which remains the supreme law of the Church (cf. canon 1752).
The decree was duly promulgated and entered into force on 9th February 2026, and was issued at Kitui under the hand and seal of the Bishop of Kitui.