Kenya Catholic Bishops return $21.6 thousand donation from President

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.