NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto’s hefty donation of Sh5.8 million to a Nairobi Catholic Church has sparked a whirlwind of controversy—and it’s far from resolved.
A month after the contribution was publicly declined by Archbishop Philip Anyolo, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has confirmed the money is still unreturned, adding fuel to the ongoing debate.
On November 17, 2024, President Ruto attended a service at Soweto Catholic Church and made several generous pledges.
These included Sh600,000 for the church choir, Sh2 million towards building a parish priest’s house, and an additional Sh3 million promised for the same project.
As if that wasn’t enough, the President also vowed to deliver a bus to the church by January 2025.
Joining in the generosity, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja contributed Sh200,000 for the choir.
However, just days after the high-profile service, Archbishop Anyolo shocked many by publicly rejecting the donations, citing a standing church policy banning such contributions from political figures.
Fast forward two weeks, and Kimani Ichung’wah claims the funds remain in limbo. “The contribution by President William Ruto has not yet been returned, contrary to rumors,” he stated.
His remarks underline the tension between the government’s charitable gestures and the church’s strict adherence to policy.
Ichung’wah further hinted at alternative plans for the funds if they are returned. “I have a long list of churches in need. If the money comes back, I’ll request the President to redirect it to other deserving congregations,” he added.
The standoff raises broader questions about the intersection of politics and religion in Kenya. While the President’s gesture aimed to support community development, the church’s firm stance reflects its commitment to transparency and independence.
As the dust settles, all eyes remain on the church’s next move and whether Ichung’wah will get the clarity he seeks.
Meanwhile, the debate over political donations to religious institutions is likely to persist, keeping Kenyans engaged in this unfolding drama.
