The Nairobi Archdiocese has announced it will refund donations made by President William Ruto and Governor Johnson Sakaja to Soweto Catholic Church on Sunday, 17th November 2024.
In a statement issued across all churches in the Archdiocese of Nairobi, Most Rev. Philip Anyolo highlighted the need to safeguard the sanctity and neutrality of worship spaces, emphasizing that political donations compromise the Church’s independence.
The donations, which included KSh 200,000 from the Governor of Nairobi and KSh 600,000 from the President for the parish choir and Parish Missionary Council, as well as KSh 2 million for the construction of the Fathers’ house, were deemed a violation of both Church directives and the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024.
The law requires permits for all fundraising appeals, including unsolicited contributions, to ensure transparency and accountability.
Additionally, President Ruto’s pledged KSh 3 million for the construction of the Fathers’ house and the donation of a parish bus have been declined.
The Church cited concerns that accepting such contributions could be seen as endorsing political agendas or facilitating unjust enrichment.
“The Church must remain a neutral and independent entity to effectively serve as a space for spiritual growth and community guidance,” the bishops stated.
They reiterated their firm stance that politicians are welcome to attend services as ordinary Christians but must avoid using the pulpit for political purposes.
President William Ruto has been on edge following the Catholic Church’s hard hitting letter condemning his government.
He however reitarated that he is willing to correct mistakes and improve.
