Church Donations by Kenyan President Spark Heated Debate

Kenyan President William Ruto has reaffirmed his commitment to financially supporting churches despite mounting criticism from religious leaders and civil society.

Speaking during a Sunday service in Kericho on November 24, 2024, Ruto reiterated his stance, citing his faith as the driving force behind his philanthropy.

Ruto’s remarks come in the wake of a controversial rejection by the Catholic Church of Kenya. On November 17, he donated 6 million Kenyan shillings (approximately $40,000) to a Nairobi Catholic parish for various church projects. Archbishop Philip Anyolo of the Nairobi Archdiocese announced that the funds would be refunded, stating that the church opposes political donations to maintain its neutrality and independence.

“The church must remain a neutral entity, free from political influence, to serve as a space for spiritual growth and community guidance,” the archbishop stated. He urged political leaders to avoid using churches as platforms for personal or political promotion.

In response, Ruto defended his actions, stating, “We have no apologies for supporting God’s work. It is more blessed to give than to receive, and that is what I’ve practiced for over three decades.” He emphasized that his support for church development is personal and unrelated to political ambitions.

This exchange has sparked widespread debate over the role of political leaders in religious settings. Critics argue that accepting large donations from politicians could compromise the integrity of religious institutions, turning them into arenas for political maneuvering.

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has urged politicians to address pressing national issues like poverty, rising taxation, and insecurity instead of using churches for political branding.

Supporters of Ruto, however, view his donations as genuine acts of goodwill aimed at fostering spiritual and community growth. They argue that his consistent support for religious institutions predates his presidency, underscoring his deep-rooted commitment to faith.