Farouk, Ichung’wah Slam Clergy for Rejecting Political Donations as Millions Flow
In a spirited defense of political contributions to religious institutions, President William Ruto’s close allies Farouk Kibet and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah donated Sh5 million to Kitalaposho AIC Church in West Pokot County during a Sunday fundraiser.
The duo criticized religious leaders who recently rejected donations from politicians, labeling such actions as undermining community development.
“We don’t donate money in the church to please bishops. We shall not stop giving in churches,” Mr. Ichung’wah declared, emphasizing that their sacrifices were for God, not for human approval.
Political Donations: Millions Pledged for Church Development
The contributions included Sh2 million from President Ruto, Sh1 million each from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Farouk Kibet, and Kimani Ichung’wah. The funds were earmarked for church development, reflecting a consistent pattern of donations from the Ruto administration despite mounting criticism from some religious quarters.
In his remarks, Mr. Kibet defended their philanthropic actions, saying, “I should not be told not to donate. I donate money to God. We have come here to donate money to help build the church.” He further criticized clerics for what he called a sense of superiority, remarking, “Bishops should know that they are Kenyans like us. They should not feel big when they put on white collars and undermine us.”
Church and Clerics Divided on Political Donations
This event comes in the wake of a growing rift between political leaders and some sections of the clergy. Last week, the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi rejected contributions from politicians, including President Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, citing ethical concerns.
Archbishop Philip Anyolo emphasized that the Church must safeguard its neutrality, remaining free from political influence.
In a pointed statement, Archbishop Anyolo also highlighted concerns over Kenya’s Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024 and underscored the importance of maintaining integrity within the Church. “The Church must remain a neutral entity free from any political influence,” he stated.
His sentiments were echoed by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, which also criticized President Ruto’s administration for high taxation, human rights violations, and unfulfilled campaign promises.
Farouk, Ichung’wah Call for West Pokot Leadership
While donating, Mr. Ichung’wah and Mr. Kibet addressed the congregation’s concerns about regional leadership. West Pokot leaders lobbied for the appointment of former Governor Prof. John Lonyangapuo as Cabinet Secretary for Security. “He is a professor and up to the task; Farouk should inform the President about it,” Mr. Ichung’wah remarked, garnering applause from local leaders and residents.
The political duo maintained their commitment to supporting churches financially and brushed off criticism. Mr. Ichung’wah concluded with a biblical reference, stating, “Hebrews 13:16 says it is good to give out sacrifices you give to please God. We give out as Christians, not as politicians.”
As the debate over political donations to churches intensifies, the divide between clerical and political leaders is set to further shape Kenya’s socio-political landscape.
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Farouk, Ichung’wah Slam Clergy for Rejecting Political Donations as Millions Flow
