Joseph Isangura
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has announced his resignation following the release of an independent review revealing the Church of England’s involvement in covering up sexual abuse.
The report, known as the Makin Review, investigated abuse perpetrated by John Smyth QC, a prominent barrister, who was found to have abused children and young men under his care.
In his official statement, Welby said, “Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign.” His decision follows intense scrutiny and criticism of the church’s handling of abuse cases involving Smyth, who was reportedly shielded from scrutiny by church authorities despite clear evidence of misconduct.
The review, published last week, detailed disturbing accounts of abuse by Smyth, who used his position to groom and abuse young men under the pretense of offering pastoral guidance. The report criticized the Church of England for failing to act on allegations against Smyth, pointing to a series of administrative oversights and a culture of silence that prioritized the church’s reputation over the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals. The findings implicated several senior church officials who were aware of the allegations yet took no action to address them or prevent further abuse.
Welby, who has held the position of Archbishop since 2013, expressed deep regret for the church’s role in mishandling abuse cases. While he was not directly implicated in the cover-up, his resignation reflects his acknowledgment of the leadership’s responsibility in addressing past failures and restoring trust. The archbishop has previously advocated for more robust safeguarding measures within the church, though the Makin Review has prompted calls for more immediate and comprehensive reforms in the church’s approach to handling abuse cases.
Read More; Tanzania Proposes ‘Diaspora Tanzanite Card’ for Foreign Citizens
Smyth’s actions, which occurred over several years, reportedly left lasting trauma on many victims, some of whom came forward to testify during the review. The survivors have called for the church to implement stronger safeguarding policies to prevent such incidents in the future and ensure justice for those harmed.
Welby’s resignation is anticipated to catalyze structural changes within the Church of England, with increased pressure on church leaders to adopt transparent policies that prioritize the protection of minors and vulnerable individuals. His departure also marks a significant moment for the Anglican Church, as it grapples with the challenge of confronting historical abuses while maintaining its mission of faith and guidance.
