Faith Nyasuguta
In a bold statement of principle, the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi has declined cash donations from President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, sparking widespread discussion on the relationship between religious institutions and political figures.
The donations were made during a service at Soweto Catholic Church on Sunday, November 17, 2024. President Ruto contributed Ksh 600,000 ($4,633) to the church choir, Ksh2 million ($15,444) toward constructing a parish priest’s house, and pledged an additional Ksh3 million ($23,166) for the same project. He also promised a church bus to be delivered in January. Governor Sakaja added Ksh200,000 ($1,544).
However, Archbishop Philip Anyolo later announced that these funds and pledges would not be accepted. Referring to a standing policy by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), Archbishop Anyolo stated that political donations are not permitted within the Catholic Church. “These funds will be returned to the respective donors, and the promised bus will not be accepted,” the Archbishop said in a statement. He stressed that the Church must remain independent of political influence to uphold its integrity and serve its community without bias.
This decision comes amid increasing scrutiny of political donations to religious institutions, with concerns that such contributions may compromise the independence of churches. Archbishop Anyolo emphasized the Church’s mission to provide spiritual guidance and community support without political interference. He also urged politicians to lead ethically and focus on addressing the pressing issues outlined by the KCCB, including economic hardships and growing insecurity.
Criticism of Government Policies
The rejection of donations coincides with the KCCB’s recent criticism of the government over what they described as failures to fulfill campaign promises and the introduction of excessive taxation. Last Thursday, the bishops accused the government of creating an oppressive tax regime, calling it an indirect attempt to reintroduce the unpopular Finance Bill, 2024. “It seems like a hidden way to bring back the Finance Bill. The current tax regime is already prohibitive and burdensome for Kenyans,” stated Bishop Maurice Muhatia during a Nairobi address.
The bishops also highlighted concerns about abductions, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, urging the government to address these injustices. Many families are still seeking answers about loved ones who went missing during recent demonstrations. These issues, the bishops noted, contribute to a growing sense of insecurity and discontent among citizens.
Divided Reactions
The Archdiocese’s decision to decline the donations has ignited debate. Supporters argue that maintaining the separation between church and state is essential to preserving the Church’s spiritual mission and impartiality.Critics, on the other hand, contend that rejecting donations—even from political leaders—could deny congregations much-needed resources for community development.
Some view the move as a principled stand against political influence, reinforcing the Church’s commitment to ethical standards. Others see it as a missed opportunity to utilize resources for projects that could benefit the faithful.
Balancing Principles and Practical Needs
The situation highlights the challenges faced by religious institutions in balancing their spiritual principles with practical community needs. While declining donations underscores the Church’s dedication to independence, it also raises questions about how it can sustain its operations and address the needs of its congregation without external support.
Archbishop Anyolo’s firm stance reflects the Church’s resolve to uphold its ethical values and avoid actions that might compromise its perceived integrity. At the same time, the decision serves as a reminder to political leaders of the importance of ethical governance. The KCCB has consistently called for accountability and urged the government to address the root causes of economic challenges and social unrest.
The Road Ahead
As Kenya grapples with widespread economic difficulties, growing insecurity, and political discontent, the role of the Church as a moral compass remains crucial. By rejecting these donations, the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi has made a clear statement about its commitment to remaining a neutral, guiding force for its community.
This decision also challenges political leaders to address systemic issues rather than using symbolic gestures to gain favor. It underscores the need for collaboration between ethical governance and principled religious leadership in tackling Kenya’s pressing challenges.
The debate surrounding this rejection highlights the delicate balance between maintaining independence and meeting practical needs, a challenge the Church and other religious institutions will continue to face in a politically charged environment.
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