Controversy and Accountability: Archbishop of Canterbury Faces Calls for Resignation

Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, faces mounting pressure to resign after a report revealed his failure to report abuse by John Smyth in 2013. With over 1,800 signatures on a petition, Welby acknowledges the oversight but refuses to step down, sparking debate within the Anglican community.

Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is under intense scrutiny as calls for his resignation grow following a damning report on his handling of abuse allegations. The report concluded that Welby failed to report John Smyth's abuse to authorities in 2013, shortly after becoming Archbishop.

A petition initiated by members of the General Synod, the church's national assembly, has amassed over 1,800 signatures, accusing Welby of losing the clergy's confidence. The Makin Review suggests that prompt action in 2013 could have prevented further abuse.

Despite taking responsibility for the oversight, Welby issued a statement condemning the abuse's scale but maintained that he will not resign. He aims to continue supporting reforms for a safer church globally.

(With inputs from agencies.)