By Samuel Ouma
The Catholic Church in Kenya has rejected contributions from President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to the Soweto Catholic Church.
This move complies with the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) direction to safeguard the Church’s integrity by avoiding political interference.
In a statement issued on Monday, Archbishop Philip Anyolo stressed the Church’s political neutrality, echoing the KCCB’s demand to prevent places of worship from becoming venues for political self-promotion.
The Archdiocese has announced the return of the President’s Ksh600,000 and the Governor’s Ksh 200,000 donations made during a fundraising event at Soweto Catholic Church on Sunday, November 17.
Furthermore, the Church declined a Ksh2 million contribution for constructing the Father’s house and the President’s commitment of Ksh3 million for additional construction efforts. The President’s proposal to provide a parish bus was also turned down.
The Archbishop emphasised the Catholic Church’s dedication to maintaining its integrity and refraining from acts jeopardising its autonomy or allowing for unfair profit.
“Politicians are most welcome to attend Church for their spiritual nourishment, but they are encouraged to do so as ordinary Christians, without leveraging their positions for political gain,” read the statement in part.
Archbishop Anyolo asked political leaders to address urgent national concerns like corruption, political disputes, healthcare challenges, and over-taxation rather than utilising church forums to advance their political goals.
He urged politicians to show ethical leadership and prioritise Kenyans’ well-being over self-interest and party goals.
