Ruto to critics: I will continue building churches, I need no permission from anyone

President William Ruto addressing members during a church service at AIC Jericho, Nairobion  March 23, 2025/PCS 

President William Ruto has reiterated his commitment to continue supporting the construction of Churches across the country

This, he said, is despite of the noises and objections by his critics.

Ruto said as he continues to step up the construction of affordable housing projects and classrooms, he will not relent in the construction of these sacred places "because this is the will of God."

"Tutamuaibisha shetani. Shetani hawezi kutuzuia kujenga nchi yetu ama kujenga makanisa zetu," he said.

President William Ruto joins in the singing session flanked by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah and bishops during a church service at AIC Jericho, Nairobi on  March 23, 2025/PCS 

Speaking during a family church service at AIC, Jericho in Makadara, Nairobi, Ruto said construction "is part of me," noting even at State House, some construction was ongoing.

He assured members that he would support them in the completion of the church.

He said his involvement in such church projects aligns with his faith, and so he does not require the permission of anyone.

"I am going to be a member of the construction committee of this church. I see there is still some work left. I am a member of AIC, and I know everything," he said.

"Shetani na watu wake wanaweza kukasirika wakitaka lakini tutajenga kanisa."

President William Ruto reading his Bible during a church service at AIC Jericho, Nairobion  March 23, 2025/PCS 

Ruto's statement follows his recent pledge of Sh20 million towards the construction of the new Jesus Winner Ministry, Roysambu, which sparked mixed reactions.

The President also pledged to mobilise his friends to raise another Sh100 million for the construction of the church, estimated at more than Sh1 billion.

Some of his political opponents raised issues questioning its source as a group of youth threatened to occupy the church in protest, demanding that they return the money.

Security officers foiled it.

President William Ruto during a church service at AIC Jericho, Nairobi on  March 23, 2025/PCS 

In response, however, the Board of Management of Jesus Winner Ministry defended President Ruto, emphasising that he has been a long-time worshipper at the church.

Regarding the donation, the board clarified that it was made following a request from the church’s overseer, Reverend Mwai.

"On the issue of His Excellency the President of Kenya, Hon. William Ruto's donation to the church, we wish to clarify to the whole nation that he has been our faithful worshipper since 2009," said Secretary-General Raphael Mwiti in a statement on behalf of the board.

"Hon. President Ruto pledged his support of Sh20 million upon request from our church's general overseer, Rev. Edward Mwai."