Kenya’s President William Ruto has ignited a wave of controversy and political unrest following his $150,000 donation to a church in Nairobi. This donation, which he made to the Jesus Winner Ministry Church, comes just months after Ruto had publicly condemned such hand-outs, claiming they fuel corruption.
The President’s pledge of 20 million shillings led to protests outside the church, where demonstrators gathered to demand the return of what they called “stolen tax money.” The protests quickly turned violent when police responded with tear gas.
Church donations have long been a tradition in Kenya, with politicians using church pulpits to reach the public in the predominantly Christian nation. However, what was once seen as a sign of generosity has become politically charged. In the past, MPs like Oscar Sudi, an ally of Ruto, have made headlines by delivering millions of shillings to churches, using these donations to gain favor with voters. Yet, the practice has sparked growing division, especially after last year’s mass protests against tax hikes, corruption, and police brutality.
In response to mounting criticism, Ruto banned government officials from participating in church fundraising events last June, citing concerns over corruption. “No state officer or public servant shall participate in public contributions or any harambees going forward,” he declared at the time, warning that such donations breed corruption. However, it seems Ruto may have forgotten his own vow.
Just a week after the protests, Ruto made another donation of 20 million shillings to a church in Eldoret, further fueling the controversy. He also promised to raise an additional 100 million shillings for the Jesus Winner Ministry. Defiantly brushing off his critics, Ruto dismissed them as “people who don’t believe in God.”
While Ruto’s office insists that these donations come from his personal funds, many are skeptical. Critics, like Mwabili Mwagodi, who helped organize the “Occupy Church” movement demand transparency. “Where is this money coming from? Bring us the receipts,” Mwagodi said, pointing to concerns that these church donations may be a cover for money laundering or voter manipulation.
The “Occupy Church” movement gained traction last year after churches stayed silent during protests, prompting activists to organize flash mobs during services. The movement became so influential that it forced preachers to speak out against government actions. In fact, the Catholic Church of Kenya even rejected a donation from Ruto after Mwagodi and his supporters mounted a campaign of online complaints.
Despite the backlash, a group of clergy have defended Ruto’s donations, calling them “Godly” and claiming that the president is wealthy enough to afford such contributions. However, critics argue that politicians are using these donations to buy influence, accusing the government of diverting public funds to secure political support.
Reverend Timothy Njoya, a prominent preacher in Nairobi, condemned the practice of politicians using churches for personal gain. Njoya, who fought for social and political justice under the rule of Kenya’s second president, Daniel arap Moi, said donations by politicians have turned churches into “graveyards of spiritualism.” He warned that preachers accepting these funds are “selling their members for votes.”
The controversy over Ruto’s donations highlights the growing tension between politics and religion in Kenya. While the president insists these donations are personal contributions, the public remains divided over their motives and potential impact on the country’s political landscape.
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