Kenya Catholic Clerics Reject Presidential Donation
In Nairobi on April 11, 2024, prominent Catholic priests, including Philip Anyolo, Maurice Muhatia, Anthony Muheria, and Martin Kivuva, participated in a public interview addressing key concerns.
The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has announced the rejection of a Ksh5.6 million donation made by President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during their visit to Soweto Catholic Church last Sunday.
Archbishop Philip Anyolo issued a statement on Monday confirming that the funds already received would be returned. President Ruto had pledged Ksh600,000 to the choir, Ksh2 million for constructing the clergy's residence, an additional promise of Ksh3 million, and a parish bus. Governor Sakaja contributed Ksh200,000.
“While politicians are always welcome to attend church for spiritual nourishment, they are encouraged to do so as ordinary Christians, without using such occasions for political leverage,” said Archbishop Anyolo.
He emphasized the church’s commitment to neutrality, ensuring it remains a space for spiritual growth and community support, free from political influence.
Archbishop Anyolo also cited the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, specifically Section 10(2), which regulates monetary contributions. “Under this legislation, any individual who solicits or receives funds in any form is deemed to be conducting a fundraising appeal, requiring proper authorization,” he explained.
This decision comes amid criticism from Catholic leaders who have accused the government of lacking integrity and failing to fulfill critical obligations, including settling debts owed to essential service providers.
In Nairobi on April 11, 2024, prominent Catholic priests, including Philip Anyolo, Maurice Muhatia, Anthony Muheria, and Martin Kivuva, participated in a public interview addressing key concerns.
The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has announced the rejection of a Ksh5.6 million donation made by President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during their visit to Soweto Catholic Church last Sunday.
Archbishop Philip Anyolo issued a statement on Monday confirming that the funds already received would be returned. President Ruto had pledged Ksh600,000 to the choir, Ksh2 million for constructing the clergy's residence, an additional promise of Ksh3 million, and a parish bus. Governor Sakaja contributed Ksh200,000.
“While politicians are always welcome to attend church for spiritual nourishment, they are encouraged to do so as ordinary Christians, without using such occasions for political leverage,” said Archbishop Anyolo.
He emphasized the church’s commitment to neutrality, ensuring it remains a space for spiritual growth and community support, free from political influence.
Archbishop Anyolo also cited the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, specifically Section 10(2), which regulates monetary contributions. “Under this legislation, any individual who solicits or receives funds in any form is deemed to be conducting a fundraising appeal, requiring proper authorization,” he explained.
This decision comes amid criticism from Catholic leaders who have accused the government of lacking integrity and failing to fulfill critical obligations, including settling debts owed to essential service providers.
