Kenyan President William Ruto’s recent donation of $150,000 to a Nairobi church has ignited a political firestorm, with critics accusing him of hypocrisy and corruption. The controversy has sparked heated debates about the role of churches in Kenyan politics and the ethics of politicians using churches as platforms for self-promotion.
Ruto’s pledge of 20 million shillings to the Jesus Winner Ministry Church came just months after he banned government officials from participating in fundraising drives for churches, citing concerns that such practices fuel corruption. The ban was seen as a move to curb the influence of politicians on churches and to promote transparency in the use of public funds.
Protesters gathered at the church, demanding the return of what they called “stolen tax money.” The situation escalated, with police using tear gas to disperse the crowd. Critics, including the Catholic Church of Kenya, have rejected Ruto’s donations, citing concerns over political corruption and the blurring of lines between church and state.
Despite the backlash, Ruto has defended his actions, dismissing critics as “people who don’t believe in God.” A group of clergy has also supported Ruto’s donation, calling it a “Godly idea.” However, many Kenyans remain skeptical, questioning the source of the funds and the motivations behind the donation.
The controversy has sparked heated debates about the role of churches in Kenyan politics and the ethics of politicians using churches as platforms for self-promotion. The National Council of Churches of Kenya has barred politicians from addressing congregations or announcing monetary contributions from the pulpit. Reverend Timothy Njoya, a renowned Nairobi preacher, has condemned the practice, saying it turns churches into “graveyards of spiritualism.”
Critics have also raised concerns about the potential for money laundering, with some accusing Ruto of using the church donation to launder public funds. The government has denied these allegations, but the controversy has highlighted the need for greater transparency in the use of public funds.
Ruto’s $150,000 church donation has sparked a political firestorm in Kenya, with critics accusing him of hypocrisy and corruption. The controversy has highlighted the need for greater transparency in the use of public funds and the importance of separating church and state. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the people of Kenya demand accountability from their leaders.