Prominent Nairobi-based lawyer and human rights defender Charles Mugane has formally written to President William Ruto seeking clarity over the proposed construction of an 8,000-seater mega church within the State House grounds.
In a letter dated July 8, 2025, and issued through his law firm, MUGANE LAW LLP, Mugane invokes Article 35 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees the right to access information held by the state.
He is demanding full disclosure regarding the legality, planning, and funding of the church project, citing concerns over transparency and constitutional accountability.
“There is no known budget allocated for this project, nor has any jurisdiction or formal approval been presented to Parliament or made public,” Mugane states in the letter, which is addressed to the Executive Office of the President and the State House Controller.
Mugane warns that the construction of such a large Christian place of worship on public land could be viewed as discriminatory toward other religious groups in a religiously diverse country like Kenya.
He is asking the state to clarify whether similar facilities are planned to accommodate citizens of different faiths.
The lawyer is also demanding:
A written justification for building the church within the State House;
Records of any public participation or consultations carried out;
Disclosure of the project’s proposed budget;
Approved architectural designs;
Evidence of necessary approvals by Nairobi County authorities.
Mugane has given the State seven days to respond, warning that he will pursue legal action if no response is received within the stipulated timeframe.
He expressed shock at media reports revealing the planned church project, describing it as a controversial and questionable initiative.
While acknowledging the importance of religious practice, Mugane emphasized that critical legal and constitutional issues must be addressed — particularly regarding how the project will be funded and whether public resources are being used.
He also referenced recent reports alleging billions of shillings had been allocated for renovations at State House, which the President has publicly denied.
Mugane reminded the government that State House is public property and that Kenya, as a constitutional democracy, must adhere to the 2010 Constitution — a document that reflects the will of the people.
Mugane, a well-known constitutional law advocate and High Court lawyer, said the silence and lack of transparency surrounding the project have sparked justifiable public concern.
