Nairobi, March 4- A storm is brewing around Pastor Edward Mwai after President William Ruto’s recent donation of Sh20 million to the Jesus Winner Ministry Church in Roysambu. Outraged by the contribution, a group of Kenyan youth is planning to occupy the church in protest, with momentum growing on social media, particularly X.
The controversy has reignited concerns over President Ruto’s stance on public fundraising. Despite banning harambees for state officials months ago, he continues to spearhead church donations. His latest pledge has only intensified the backlash, as Kenyans question the source and intent behind such contributions.
Pastor Mwai has long been associated with influential political figures, maintaining close ties with both President Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Now, Ruto has promised to mobilize his allies to donate an additional Sh100 million towards constructing a new church for Mwai, a project estimated to cost billions.
However, the location of the proposed church is raising further concerns. The land along Thika Road, where it is set to be built, is reportedly owned by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), making the donation even more contentious.
Kiambu Senator Karungo Thangwa has weighed in on the matter, linking the land’s high value to the massive donation.
“How much does an acre near TRM cost? Ksh 157 million. Now you know why the Ksh 100 million pledge was made to Winners Church. Hii imeenda!” he wrote on X.
Political leaders and activists are also joining the debate. Inject Party Leader Morara Kebaso has announced plans to visit the church on March 9, 2025.
“Let’s meet at Jesus Winner Ministry Roysambu for special prayers for Pastor Edward Mwai Kiongo. We will forgive him mercilessly,” he posted on X.
Social commentator and activist Francis Gaitho believes the blame should be directed at both the pastor and his congregation, whom he accuses of fueling public outrage.
“Pastor Edward Mwai and his worshippers at Jesus Winner Ministry Church have upset the entire nation. I haven’t seen such nationwide consensus in a while.
Stay away from your churches this Sunday because Kenyans are coming out in full force. #OccupyJesusWinner #OccupyStatehouse #RutoMustGo,” he posted on social media.
The uproar highlights the ongoing debate about political donations to religious institutions. In the past, the Nairobi Catholic Archdiocese returned Sh5.6 million donated by President Ruto, citing concerns over its source.
