Catholic Church in Trouble: Ruto’s KSh 5M Donation Sparks National Debate
The Soweto Catholic Church has found itself at the center of a heated public debate after receiving a controversial KSh 5 million donation from President William Ruto. During a Sunday service on November 17, the President pledged the funds for constructing the Father’s house and an additional KSh 300,000 for choir uniforms.
However, the donation has drawn criticism from Kenyans who flooded Archbishop Philip Anyolo’s email, urging the church to reject the money. Critics argue that accepting the funds compromises the church’s independence and may silence its criticism of the Kenya Kwanza government.
The controversy follows harsh criticism from Catholic bishops, led by Archbishop Maurice Muhatia, who accused the government of ignoring citizens’ concerns and breaking campaign promises. Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit of the Anglican Church has also voiced similar concerns, calling for transparency and accountability.
The debate has been further fueled by Ruto’s earlier ban on government officials’ participation in fundraisers, a directive aimed at curbing the misuse of public funds. This raises questions about the legality of the President’s donation under the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, which bars officials from using public funds in fundraising efforts.
As calls for the church to return the money intensify, the situation highlights broader tensions between the church, government, and public accountability. Whether the church will refund the money or face continued scrutiny remains to be seen.
Catholic Church in Trouble: Ruto’s KSh 5M Donation Sparks National Debate
