Nairobi Catholic Archbishop Rejects Ruto, Sakaja Donations
The Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi has turned down donations from politicians.
Archbishop Philip Anyolo announced on Monday that the money received from President William Ruto and Governor Johnson Sakaja would be reimbursed.
On Sunday, November 17, 2024, President Ruto gave Sh600,000 to the Soweto Catholic Church Choir and Parish Missionary Council.
He also gave Sh2 million to help build the Father’s house, while Governor Sakaja gave Sh200,000.
The President offered to purchase a parish bus and an additional Sh3 million to build the priest’s residence.
“The Catholic Church strongly discourages the use of events such as fundraisers and gatherings as platforms for political self-promotion,” Archbishop Anyolo said on Monday.
Statement on Adherence to @KenyaKccb Directives on Political Donations to the Church. @MagazineSeed @MkatolikiDaima @CatholicMediaN1 pic.twitter.com/t1oOBWN7FS
— Archdiocese of Nairobi- ADN (@NairobiArchdioc) November 18, 2024
“Politicians are urged to refrain from turning the pulpit into a stage for political rhetoric, as such actions undermine the sanctity of worship places.”
He urged the Church to maintain integrity by refusing contributions that could jeopardize its independence or promote unjust enrichment.
He asked political leaders to show ethical leadership by addressing the critical challenges outlined by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops.
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Political wrangling, corruption, self-interested politics, human rights violations, and freedom of expression were among the themes raised.
“The church must remain a neutral entity, free from political influence, to effectively serve as a space for spiritual growth and community guidance,” Archbishop Anyolo said.
On Thursday, the KCCB accused President Ruto’s administration of creating a ‘culture of lying’ and using state resources to stifle critics.
He did, however, say that politicians are free to attend church for spiritual nourishment, just like ordinary Christians, as long as they do not use their positions for political benefit.
Nairobi Catholic Archbishop Rejects Ruto, Sakaja Donations
