The Archdiocese of Nairobi has issued a firm stance against political donations to churches, following directives by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB). A statement released on November 18, 2024, by Metropolitan Archbishop Philip Anyolo emphasized the Catholic Church’s commitment to maintaining its neutrality and safeguarding worship spaces from political influence.
This declaration comes after a KCCB statement on November 14, addressing critical issues affecting the nation, including political wrangles, corruption, and poor leadership priorities. The statement was read across all Nairobi Archdiocese churches on Sunday, November 17.
The Archbishop reiterated the Church’s long-standing opposition to politicians using church events like fundraisers for self-promotion. Any donations made without legal approval or those linked to political motives will be refunded to the donors, as evidenced by the rejection of donations totaling Ksh 3.1 million made to Soweto Catholic Church. These funds included Ksh 500,000 from Governor Sakaja and contributions of Ksh 2 million and Ksh 600,000 from other political entities.
Previously, Archbishop Philip Anyolo returned the car that William Ruto gave him.
Anyolo again, has rejected William Ruto’s Ksh 5M donation.
The Church underscored that political leaders must exhibit integrity by avoiding actions that may compromise its independence. Events such as the Soweto Catholic Church fundraiser were deemed violations of KCCB’s directives and the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024.
Politicians are encouraged to attend church as ordinary Christians while keeping their positions from influencing religious spaces. Archbishop Anyolo’s decisive statement seeks to uphold the Church’s integrity as a space for community guidance and spiritual growth.
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