Violent clashes broke out in Nairobi after Kenyan President William Ruto made a controversial donation of 20 million shillings ($155,000; £120,000) to the Jesus Winner Ministry Church in Roysambu. The donation, aimed at supporting the church’s development, has sparked widespread outrage, particularly among young Kenyans grappling with the high cost of living.
The protests, which began early Sunday, saw demonstrators attempting to storm the church premises in objection to the president’s large financial contribution. In response, police officers fired tear gas to disperse the crowd as tensions escalated. Protesters also lit bonfires and used rocks to block major roads around the church.
Public Outrage Over Presidential Donation
President Ruto’s donation has drawn sharp criticism from Kenyans who feel that the funds could have been directed towards tackling pressing economic challenges in the country. Many young citizens have decried the donation as a misplacement of priorities, especially as the cost of living continues to skyrocket.
The donation comes at a time when unemployment rates are high, food prices are rising, and many Kenyans struggle to afford basic services. Critics argue that the president should prioritize addressing the economic hardships rather than making large church contributions.
“We are suffering every day. Instead of the government focusing on fixing the economy, our president is busy making donations to churches,” lamented one protester in Roysambu.
Ruto Defends His Church Contributions
Amid the backlash, President William Ruto has defended his donation, stating that his commitment to supporting religious institutions will not waver. He further announced a similar donation to another church in Eldoret, where he enjoys strong political support.
“I have always supported the church, and I will continue doing so. I believe the church plays a critical role in shaping the moral fabric of our nation,” said President Ruto during a public address.
However, his stance has continued to ignite mixed reactions, with many questioning whether such contributions are ethical or politically motivated.
Religious Leaders Reject Political Donations
The donation controversy has also reignited debates around the relationship between religion and politics in Kenya. Last year, both Catholic and Anglican church leaders in Kenya rejected political donations, arguing that such contributions compromised the integrity of religious institutions.
In 2024, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) jointly declared that they would no longer accept monetary donations from politicians, citing the risk of turning churches into political battlegrounds.
“The church must remain neutral and independent. Accepting donations from politicians undermines our ability to speak truth to power,” said Archbishop Anthony Muheria of the Catholic Church.
Tensions Escalate as Protesters Demand Accountability
As anger continues to mount, several protesters were arrested following violent demonstrations near the Jesus Winner Ministry Church. According to local media reports, the protesters attempted to force their way into the church and disrupt the ongoing Sunday service but were met with heavy security deployment.
Clashes also spilled into neighboring streets, with demonstrators burning rubbish and blocking roads with rocks. The situation remained tense throughout the day, with residents expressing frustration over the state of the economy and the president’s perceived misplaced priorities.
Call for Transparency and Accountability
Following the violent protests, several civil rights groups have now called for increased transparency and accountability regarding public spending by government officials. The groups have demanded clear guidelines on how state funds are utilized, particularly in religious and social projects.
“This is not about religion — it is about accountability. Kenyans have a right to know where public money is being spent,” said Haki Africa Executive Director Hussein Khalid.
As protests and debates around President Ruto’s church donations continue, the government faces increasing pressure to address the economic crisis affecting millions of citizens. Meanwhile, security remains heightened around major churches across the country to prevent further unrest.