Fresh Twist as State House Reacts to Catholic Church’s Decision to Decline Ruto’s Donation
The Catholic Church’s bold decision to decline donations from President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has sparked a fresh wave of reactions, with State House weighing in on the matter.
On Monday, November 18, Nairobi Archbishop Philip Anyolo cited the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (KCCB) directives, which discourage accepting political donations to safeguard the church’s neutrality.
These guidelines also discourage using church platforms for political self-promotion, a move Anyolo described as vital to maintaining the sanctity of the institution.
“Consequently, the donations made to Soweto Catholic Church on Sunday, November 17, are in violation of these directives and the law,” Anyolo stated. He disclosed that the KSh 2.6 million donation pledged by President Ruto, along with an additional KSh 3 million and a parish bus, had been declined. Governor Sakaja’s KSh 200,000 contribution to the Parish Missionary Council and choir will also be refunded.
The Archbishop further elaborated, “The funds will be refunded to the respective donors, as will the promised KSh 3 million and the parish bus donation by the president.”
This unexpected move has drawn mixed reactions, with many lauding the church for upholding its principles. However, State House has offered a contrasting perspective on the matter. Speaking to Citizen TV, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed questioned the Catholic Church’s announcement of a refund.
“As of now, we have not received any money back,” Hussein said, adding a layer of intrigue to the unfolding saga.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance between political leaders and religious institutions in Kenya, a country where the intertwining of faith and politics has long been a contentious issue.
This latest development has reignited debates on the church’s role in society and its relationship with political figures, with many awaiting further clarity on the pledged donations and their handling.
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Fresh Twist as State House Reacts to Catholic Church’s Decision to Decline Ruto’s Donation
