Muslim leaders from different parts of the country have challenged President William Ruto to consider constructing a mosque at State House.
The Muslims made the plea following the Head of State's defence of his decision to establish a Ksh1.2 billion church after a public uproar by Kenyans.
The leaders, led by Sheikh Abu Qatada from the Pwani Patriotic Religious Leaders group, said the State House belongs to all Kenyans and should not favour one religion.
They explained that just like Christians have been granted a chance to worship at the President's residence, muslims should also be given a similar opportunity.
“We are also raising our voices and asking that, since the State House is a place that represents all religions, and Christians already have a church, we too ask for a mosque," said Sheikh Abu Qatada.
He went on to add, "That way when we are at the State House, we can also have a place to pray."
Ruto, on July 5, came out to defend the Ksh 1.2 billion church construction project at State House following criticism from Kenyans who accused him of allegedly using the taxpayers' money for 'unnecessary' projects.
During his Friday afternoon speech at State House in Nairobi, Ruto noted that he has no apologies over the construction, stating that the growing opposition against church construction is 'works of satan.'
“When I was elected, we came in to find an iron sheet church in the State House. I have no apologies to make for building a church at State House,” Ruto stated.
He clarified that he was using his money to construct the building, not the taxpayers' money, as it was portrayed earlier.
"The construction of the Church is not costing the government a single cent. I will build the church with my own money because the church of God is something that demands respect," Ruto reiterated.
The President added that his deep-rooted faith motivated him to construct the church, dismissing criticism leveled at him.
