Kenya’s President William Ruto Defies Own Ban, Donates $150,000 to Church

Kenya’s President William Ruto has sparked controversy after donating 20 million shillings ($150,000) to the Jesus Winner Ministry Church in Nairobi, despite his own ban on government officials participating in fundraising drives for churches.

The donation led to protests outside the church, with demonstrators demanding the return of what they called “stolen tax money.” Police responded with tear gas, escalating the situation.

Ruto’s actions have been criticized as hypocritical, given his previous statements on the issue.

“No state officer or public servant shall participate in public contributions or any harambees (fundraisers) going forward,” he said in June. “It is occasioning and it is breeding, if I may say, corruption.”

Despite the backlash, Ruto remains defiant, dismissing critics as “people who don’t believe in God.” His office claims the donation came from his personal funds, but many are skeptical.

Mwabili Mwagodi, an organizer of the “Occupy Church” movement, which aims to “disconnect the church from politics,” has questioned the source of the funds. “Where is this money coming from? Bring us the receipts.”

The controversy highlights concerns about corruption and the blurring of lines between church and state in Kenya. Reverend Timothy Njoya, a renowned Nairobi preacher, has condemned the practice of politicians using churches for political gain. “Donations by politicians have turned churches into graveyards of spiritualism,” he said.

The National Council of Churches of Kenya has taken steps to address the issue, barring politicians from addressing congregations or announcing monetary contributions from the pulpit. However, Ruto’s actions suggest that the practice of using churches for political gain remains entrenched.

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