Kenya’s Catholic Church Rejects President’s $40K Donation
…Rejects use of church events, such as fundraisers services, as platforms for political self-promotion
By Yahaya Idris
The Catholic Church in Kenya turned down President William Ruto’s donation of around $40,000, after priests denounced the government’s failure to fulfill its election commitments.
Global Times Nigeria reports President Ruto handed over Ksh2.6 million of the donation at a service on Sunday, November 17, promising to pay the balance later and also donate a bus to the parish. The funds were intended for building a house for the priest and gifts for the choir.
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Nairobi Archbishop Philip Agnolo emphasized the church’s need for autonomy from political interference, leading to the return of the donation due to ethical considerations.
Agnolo also expressed his refusal to accept a donation from Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, present at the service.
The Catholic Church firmly prohibits utilizing church gatherings, including charity events and liturgical services, as venues for political self-aggrandizement.
“The Catholic Church categorically rejects the use of church events, such as fundraisers and services, as platforms for political self-promotion,” the archbishop said.
