Kenyan President William Ruto to Construct Controversial Church at State House

Tensions rise as President Ruto defends his church project amid criticisms of entangling state and religion in Kenya's secular framework.

Kenyan President William Ruto announced plans to construct a large church at the State House in Nairobi, proclaiming he will finance the $9 million project personally and asserting there's no need for regret. Ruto's declaration has sparked outrage among Kenyans who are already struggling with economic difficulties while expressing concerns about the separation of church and state. "I am not going to ask anyone for an apology for building a church. The devil might be angry and can do what he wants," he asserted, a comment interpreted as provocative by many.

Architectural designs featured in a prominent local newspaper display a grand structure capable of accommodating 8,000 worshippers. Critics, including lawmakers, have raised questions regarding the suitability of such a project in a secular country like Kenya, where approximately 85% of the population identifies as Christian, while a significant Muslim minority exists alongside adherents of other faiths. The objections have intensified, particularly concerning the projected financial expenditure, given the pressing economic situation affecting many citizens.

Undeterred by the controversy, President Ruto highlighted that he inherited a modest makeshift church upon his ascendance to the presidency, contending that an iron-sheet structure was not appropriate for the residence of Kenya's head of state. Known for his deep evangelical Christian beliefs, Ruto has cultivated a public persona filled with religious fervor, which has, however, polarized perspectives within the polity over the intersection of faith and governance.

The ongoing public discourse continues to evolve, paralleling President Ruto's steadfastness toward fulfilling his vision for a new house of worship within the heart of Kenya's political landscape.