Reports claiming that Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has decided to retire from his position by the end of 2026 are false, according to Reverend Father Jude Krishantha, Director of Mass Communications of the Archdiocese of Colombo.
When contacted, Fr. Krishantha stated that decisions regarding the Archbishop’s position are made by the Vatican.
He explained that under Canon Law, the retirement of an archbishop is considered upon reaching the age of 80, but the final decision rests with the Pope.
Although Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith is due to turn 80 next year, no official decision has been announced regarding his retirement.
Several media reports had claimed, citing unnamed sources, that a change in the leadership of the Archdiocese of Colombo was expected by the end of this year.