NAIROBI, Kenya
The Archdiocese of Nairobi has reaffirmed its commitment to the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops' (KCCB) policy on political donations to the Church.
The KCCB, in a statement
delivered on November 14, 2024, and read in all churches within the Archdiocese
on Sunday, November 17, 2024, emphasised the importance of preserving the
Church's independence and sanctity, as well as the ethical concerns surrounding
political contributions.
Archbishop Philip A. Anyolo,
speaking on behalf of the archdiocese, emphasised the Church's strong
opposition to using its platforms for political gain.
On November 17, 2024, the
Archdiocese announced the rejection of several donations made at Soweto
Catholic Church, in accordance with KCCB directives and the Public Fundraising
Appeals Bill 2024.
The Governor of Nairobi donated $1,547.99 to the Parish
Choir and Parish Missionary Council (PMC), while the President donated
Ksh. 600,000 to the same organisations.
President Ruto also
contributed $4,643.96 to the Fathers' House construction.
The bishops also rejected a $2,3219.81 pledge for additional construction and a parish bus donation.
The Archdiocese confirmed that
any funds previously received in violation of these directives would be
returned to donors.
He urged politicians not to
use the pulpit for rhetoric, claiming that such actions jeopardise the sanctity
of religious spaces.
The Church emphasised its role
as a neutral institution free of external influence, as well as its obligation
to reject any contributions that jeopardise its integrity or perpetuate
unethical behaviour.
The Church urged political
leaders to focus on critical national issues such as political squabbles,
corruption, human rights violations, broken promises, overtaxation, and
misplaced priorities.
Leaders were also urged to
demonstrate ethical leadership by prioritising Kenyans' needs over selfish
political goals.
While inviting politicians to
attend church for spiritual nourishment, Archbishop Anyolo emphasised that they
should do so as ordinary Christians rather than using their positions for
personal or political gain.
He emphasised that the church
should remain a place of worship and community guidance, free of political
interference or influence.
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