President William Ruto has reaffirmed his desire to construct a larger and more permanent place of worship within State House, Nairobi, but his plans now face a legal obstacle.
Speaking during a Sunday service at the State House Chapel, the President said worship facilities at the compound needed to be expanded to accommodate all congregants.
“Here at State House, God will bless us to get a better place for worship. We will not have some people worshipping from outside since we will have a bigger place,” Ruto said.
He thanked those managing the existing chapel and linked recent rainfall and improved agricultural yields to God’s blessings, urging Kenyans to “work hard in whatever you do.”
However, High Court Judge E.C. Mwita has issued a conservatory order stopping the government from proceeding with any construction of a permanent church, or any religious structure, within State House or other State Lodges. The order will remain in force until November 18, 2025, pending the hearing of a constitutional petition.
The case, filed by Transparency International Kenya, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and two other petitioners, challenges the move on grounds that it breaches the constitutional principle of separation between State and religion. The petitioners argue that constructing a religious facility on public grounds risks blurring the line between governance and faith, undermining Kenya’s commitment to religious neutrality.
The suit has been lodged against the Katiba Institute and the State Law Office, with the court expected to weigh whether State resources can be devoted to building a place of worship within the President’s official residence.
