The Catholic Bishops in Kenya made a significant announcement. They decided to return Ksh 5 million donated by President William Ruto. This donation was intended to construct a priest’s residence at Soweto Catholic Church in Nairobi. The church leaders, particularly Archbishop Philip Anyolo, expressed ethical concerns regarding political donations.
Archbishop of Nairobi Philip Anyolo addressing the faithful at Holy Family Minor Basilica Cathedral in Nairobi on 29 March 2024.Photo courtesy.
The controversy began when President Ruto donated a church service. He pledged Ksh 2 million for the priest’s house and Ksh 600,000 for the church choir. Additionally, he promised a bus for the church. However, this generous offer faced backlash from various Kenyans who felt uneasy about accepting money from politicians.
Many Kenyans took to social media to voice their opinions. They demanded that the church reject the funds outright. The public outcry was fueled by a growing sentiment that churches should remain neutral. Accepting political donations could compromise the church’s integrity and independence.
In response to these pressures, Archbishop Anyolo announced that the funds would be returned. He emphasized that accepting such donations could lead to the church’s exploitation for political purposes.
He stated, “The Church is called to uphold integrity by refusing contributions that may compromise its independence.” This statement resonated with many church supporters.
The bishops’ decision has garnered mixed reactions across Kenya. Supporters praised the church for maintaining its moral stance. They believe rejecting political donations is essential for preserving the church’s credibility.
Prominent figures, including activists and politicians, expressed their support using the hashtag #IStandWithTheCatholicBishops.
Conversely, some critics accused the bishops of hypocrisy. They argued that his donation would likely be accepted if Ruto were not a politician but a philanthropist. This perspective highlights a broader debate about the role of religion in politics. It raises questions about whether churches should engage with political figures.
The bishops reiterated their commitment to ethical principles in their operations. They believe that returning the donation aligns with their mission to serve the community without bias. Many church members feel proud of their leaders’ decision to prioritize integrity over financial gain.
Furthermore, this incident has sparked discussions about political influence in religious institutions. Many are concerned about how political donations can affect church operations and decisions. The bishops’ stance serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining boundaries between politics and religion.
The Catholic bishops’ firm stance on returning Ruto’s donation reflects their commitment to ethical principles. By rejecting political contributions, they aim to protect the sanctity of their institutions and maintain public trust.
This decision may inspire other religious organizations to evaluate their policies on accepting donations from politicians
