Deputy President William Ruto and AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development Raila Odinga on Tuesday attended the installation of the new Archbishop of Kisumu Catholic Metropolitan Diocese.
Bungoma Senator Moses Wetang’ula, governors Anyang Nyong’o (Kisumu), Cornel Rasanga (Siaya), Wycliffe Wangamati (Bungoma) and Cyprian Awiti (Homa Bay) were also present.
Archbishop Zacchaeus Okoth has retired after being in charge since May 21, 1990.
Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops chairman Philip Anyolo takes over.
Anyolo was previously the bishop of Homa Bay diocese.
He led his last mass on Friday for Homa Bay priests, sisters, brothers and layleaders.
Kisumu county police commander Job Boronjo assured maximum security during the Saturday ceremony at Uzima University.
Many Catholic faithful attended the event.
On Friday, Anyolo’s procession left for Kisumu at 11am.
At Kobuya/ Nyakwere – the border of Kisumu and Homa Bay dioceses – he was officially handed over to the Kisumu priests and faithful.
The new archbishop made brief stopovers at Katito, Ahero, Withur, Buoye and Nyamasaria en route to St Theresa’s Catholic Cathedral, Kibuye, where he recieved a warm welcome.
Kisumu Vicar General father Moses Omollo introduced and unveiled Anyolo officially to faithful.
He was then driven to the bishop’s residence, ahead of his installation today.
