President William Ruto has yet again dived into the murky waters of contributions to the church after he pledged to donate Ksh10 million for the construction of a pastor's plaza in Narok County.
Speaking during a church service in Mosiro in Narok County on Sunday, Ruto, who was responding to an earlier request for a State Lodge to be built in the area, revealed that he would be offering the funds for the construction of the plaza.
''You have told me that you need a State Lodge here. But I have been wondering how it would be here in Mosiro. Having considered that it is not possible, I have decided that I will, on the requests made for the construction of a pastor's plaza here in Mosiro," Ruto stated.
''Because we cannot have a State lodge here, we will build that plaza for pastors. I will look for Ksh10 million to embark on the construction. That will be for you to build that plaza, and if you get stuck midway, I will send these friends of mine to come help you.''
Despite backlash from the public and his censure on church harambees, the Head of State has maintained his commitment to offering financial support to religious institutions.
On March 2, Ruto stirred another political uproar when he pledged to donate Ksh20 million to Jesus Winner Ministries in Roysambu amid backlash from the public.
This came despite earlier attempts by youth who had stormed the church in protest over its perceived dalliance with the government.
Days after facing sharp criticism over allegations of receiving KSh20 million from President Ruto, Jesus Winner Ministry was forced to issue a statement denying the claims.
Addressing the press on Thursday, March 6, the church’s secretary, Raphael Mweti, clarified that the multi-million-shilling funds were a pledge and not a cash donation, as alleged by some Kenyans.
According to Mweti, President Ruto pledged the money following a request from Bishop Edward Mwai, who informed the Head of State about the church’s plan to build a larger structure.
On July 10, President Ruto banned all state officers from participating in Harambees. The directive was issued through a memo by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei.
''In that regard, and conscious of the duty to ensure that the spirit of Harambee continues to propel its noble ideals while addressing concerns on accountability and ethical conduct within the public service,''
However, just weeks after issuing the directive, the Head of State appeared to walk back on his stance by resuming donations to churches.
