Ruto defends church donations as NCCK issues new guidelines

President William Ruto has vigorously reaffirmed his financial support to religious institutions, comparing critics to the devil, and denying allegations that donations are politically motivated and should be rejected.

Speaking during a service yesterday at Jericho African Inland Church in Makadara constituency, the head of state reiterated his commitment to continue supporting the construction of churches.

There has been public and church debate on politicians’ donations to religious institutions and some churches decline their money. Critics say politicians are trying to buy votes and exalt themselves; some call their money ‘dirty’.

The National Council of Churches of Kenya has directed that churches should not allow politicians to speak during services, their donations should not be publicised and they should not be endorsed or elevated above regular church members.

Ruto said that as he steps up the construction of affordable housing projects and classrooms, he will not relent in the construction of sacred places “because this is the will of God”.

“We shall shame the devil, the devil cannot prevent us from developing our country or developing our places of worship,” the President said.

Ruto said construction “is part of me’, adding that even at State House, some construction was underway.

He assured members of the church that he will support them in completing construction of the house of worship. Ruto said his involvement in such church projects aligns with his faith and he does not require the permission of anyone to donate.

“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.

The President was accompanied by National Assembly Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah and MP George Aladwa.

Kikuyu MP Ichung’wah urged the church to play its role and avoid being dragged into “cheap politics”.

“Some of the church leaders have become more of political players, who then will become the conscience of society,” the lawmaker said.

“I plead with all church leaders to pass on the good baton by being the conscience of society.”

Ruto’s statement follows his recent pledge of Sh20 million for the construction of the new Jesus Winner Ministry in 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 to cost more than Sh1 billion.

Some of his political opponents questioned the source of the money, as a group of young people threatened to occupy the church in protest, demanding the money be returned.

Ruto’s remarks within the church came on the same day the NCCK issued guidelines on how to treat politicians attending worship services.

The council said politicians, like other church members, should not be allowed to make speeches in church but can address congregants outside the premises.

The NCCK also instructed its members not to publicise any money donated by politicians.