KENYA: Ruto Defends Church Donations, Says God Will Be Known In Kenya

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

Kenyan President William Ruto has hit back at critics questioning his financial contributions to churches, insisting he will continue supporting religious institutions despite concerns over government spending.

Speaking at a Sunday service at African Independent Church Fellowship Annex in Eldoret, Ruto dismissed those opposing his donations as people who “do not believe in God.”

His remarks follow public backlash over his pledge of Ksh.20 million and an additional Ksh.100 million for a fundraiser at Jesus Winner Ministry church in Nairobi on March 2.

“The devil is arrogant… There is ongoing debate in this country about church giving, building places of worship, and the role of God in Kenya,” he stated, emphasizing that he will not be swayed by critics. He also quoted the Bible, saying Kenya will recognize God and achieve great things, adding that those against church contributions “will fail.”

Ruto revealed that he had doubled the contributions made at a recent fundraiser in Eldoret, instructing church leaders to send him the final amount.

Meanwhile, as he attended the Eldoret service, police in Nairobi were dispersing protesters attempting to block Thika Road near Jesus Winner Ministry church.

The demonstration, organized online, was initially planned at the church premises but was met with heavy security.

Bishop Edward Mwai, the leader of Jesus Winner Ministry, has faced criticism for accepting Ruto’s donations. Many Kenyans have raised concerns over government priorities, citing struggles in healthcare and education.

During last year’s anti-government protests, Ruto had barred state officials from making church donations to curb corruption and the misuse of public funds.

However, he now argues that giving to churches is a moral duty.

“We cannot be intimidated by people on social media,” he told the congregation.

“We are losing our young people to drugs, yet some are telling us we should not focus on the moral foundation of our country? We must, and we will!”

As the debate over the intersection of politics, religion, and public spending continues, Ruto remains firm, assuring his supporters that his contributions will persist despite opposition.