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The Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi has declined donations made by President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during a Sunday church service at Soweto Catholic Church. The decision aligns with a policy by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) that prohibits the Catholic Church from accepting political donations to safeguard its independence and integrity.
During the service, President Ruto contributed KSh 600,000 to the church choir, KSh 2 million for constructing the parish priest’s house, and pledged an additional KSh 3 million for the same project, along with a bus for the church in January. Governor Sakaja donated KSh 200,000.
However, Archbishop Philip Anyolo announced that the funds and pledges would be returned to the donors, stating:
> “The Church must remain free from political influence to serve as a neutral space for spiritual and community growth.”
A Call for Ethical Leadership
Archbishop Anyolo also urged politicians to prioritize ethical governance and address critical national issues, including rising economic challenges and insecurity. His remarks echoed recent concerns raised by the KCCB, which criticized the government for failing to fulfill campaign promises and implementing what they called “unreasonable” taxes.
Speaking in Nairobi last week, Bishop Maurice Muhatia said:
> “The current tax regime is already prohibitive and burdensome for Kenyans. It seems like a hidden way to bring back the rejected Finance Bill, 2024.”
Concerns Over Insecurity
The bishops also highlighted increasing cases of abductions, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, urging the government to take decisive action. They stressed the need for justice for families affected during recent protests.
By rejecting the donations, the Catholic Church reinforces its stance on maintaining impartiality while pushing for accountability and justice in leadership.
