Nairobi, Kenya, November 20- The dispute between the Kenyan government and the Catholic Church over a recent donation by President William Ruto took an unexpected turn on Tuesday, November 19. State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed confirmed that the money rejected by the Church had not been returned.
Hussein Mohamed stated, “By the end of the day (Tuesday, November 19), we have not received any money back.”
This revelation comes amid reports that the Catholic Parish of St. Joakim and Anne in Soweto, Nairobi, had directly requested the donation. The parish priest had reportedly discussed the matter with the church’s senior hierarchy before presenting the request to the President during a church service.
President Ruto acknowledged the request when addressing the congregation, following appeals by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and other local leaders. Parish priest James Mburungu stated, “As the church, we have brought requests through our leaders and bishops, representing Christians and citizens alike.”
Ruto pledged Ksh5 million, mentioning his experience in development projects. On Sunday, November 17, he donated Ksh600,000 for the church choir and Ksh2 million for the construction of a priest’s house. Additionally, he promised Ksh3 million for a church bus. Governor Sakaja also contributed Ksh200,000 during the event.
However, Archbishop Philip Anyolo of Nairobi rejected the donations, citing the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, which prohibits soliciting or accepting funds that violate certain regulations.
“These funds will be refunded to the respective donors,” said Anyolo, adding that the additional promised funds for the church bus and priest’s house were also declined.
