Just a day after Kenya's President William Ruto worshipped at the Soweto Catholic Church, Nairobi Parish and Donated Ksh 2 Million to the Church to aid in Construction of A Bishop's house and Ksh 600000 to the Choir, The Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi has declined the contribution.
In a Statement through Archibishop Philip Anyalo, the Catholic diocese of Nairobi has turned down all political donations, including funds already received and those promised to the Soweto Parish yesterday.
Archbishop Philip Anyolo has refunded the donations made by the head of state and the Nairobi Governor. of Ksh 200,000 from the Governor of Nairobi Johnson Sakaja had contributed Ksh 200000 to the choir and Parish Missionary Council (PMC) which the president Ruto topped with Ksh 600,000.
Additionally, the Church has returned Ksh 2 million from President Ruto, which the head of state contributed for the construction of the Fathers' house.
While refunding the Cash, the Archbishop stated that the Church must remain neutral and avoid compromising its integrity by accepting political contributions.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi, has reiterated the recent statements made by the Catholic Bishops, urging Political leaders to focus on addressing pressing national issues, like corruption, human rights and freedom of speech.
President William Ruto and leaders affiliated to the Kenya Kwanza administration recently went on an onslaught of Catholic Bishops in the Country following the accusations.
The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), in a press release on Thursday, November 14, accused President Ruto's administration of fostering a "culture of lies." Sentiments, that the Kenyan Governorment has not taken lightly.
" The culture of lies is swiftly replacing integrity and respect. Truth seems to no longer exist in our politics, and Kenyans have unfortunately normalized these falsehoods,” the bishops said.
They also condemned the rampant corruption, unethical leadership, abductions, and killings, urging Kenyans to hold politicians accountable.
Responding to the criticism, Kapsaret Member Of Parliament and a Close ally to the Head of State, Oscar Sudi, accused the Bishops of Tribalism.
"It is dumbfounding to see Archbishop Anthony Muheria preaching the gospel on one hand and fanning tribalism on the other hand." Sudi Said.
" Muheria lacks moral authority to criticise the current regime because he is akin to doublespeak. The cleric is on record for backing the past regime even when it was clear it had failed Kenyans and must be bold enough to steer away from tribal politics." The Kapsaret Legislator added.
On the other hand, Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot insinuated that the Catholic Bishop's, were attacking the president, because he doesn't belong to their denomination.
" I am struggling to recall the last time the Catholic Bishops issued such a scathing personal attack on the two former Presidents, who were incidentally Catholics" Aaron Cheruiyot remarked.
Uasin Gishu Women Representative, Gladys Boss Shollei, wasn't left behind either. The legislator has issued a warning to the Clergy, telling them to stick to Spiritual Work.
" For the bishops to stand up and make all manner of accusations against the government, I think it’s wrong. As a Christian and a girl who grew up in a catholic school, it was my saddest and lowest moment. I want those bishops to name the people who were killed, provide their identity cards, and tell us where the bodies were delivered for them to prove which cases the government is not investigating. We do not make blanket accusations against the government." She Said.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony at Tangaza University on Friday, November 15, Ruto urged the clergy to ensure their statements are factual to avoid misleading the public.
“I urge all leaders, including the clergy, to work together toward building a nation we can all be proud of. Even as we discuss important national issues, we must remain factual to avoid falling into the same traps we accuse others of,” he said.
“In the Apostles' Creed, we all affirm belief in the one holy Catholic Church, even those of us in other faiths. I have noticed some churches lack adequately trained clergy. Tangaza University should consider offering training to clergy across denominations,” Ruto added.
Former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, urged the elected leaders to respect the clergy, with his replacement, Kindiki, saying the government is ready to listen to the church.
Kenyans have shared their opinions, calling out the Kenya Kwanza administration for shifting the blame and pointing fingers at the Clergy instead of addressing the Issues.