State House has revealed that President William Ruto has received a refund for the Kes 2.6 million donation he made at a parish in Nairobi’s Soweto after the Archbishop of Nairobi declared it rejected.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi had announced the rejection a donation of Sh2.6 million from President Ruto on ethical considerations.
In a statement on Monday evening, the church also said it would refund Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja Kes 200,000 he donated when he accompanied President Ruto to a Catholic Church in Nairobi’s Soweto.
President Ruto’s donation on Sunday included Sh2 million for the construction of the parish priest’s house, with a pledge of an additional Sh3 million to complete the project.
Archbishop Philip Anyolo, the Nairobi Metropolitan Archbishop, explained that the donations by the two senior government officials contravened the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024.
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The Bill, which is under consideration by Parliament, stipulates that any person who solicits or receives money or benefits while conducting a fundraising appeal must adhere to strict guidelines, whether the appeal is direct or indirect.
“The Church is called to uphold integrity by refusing contributions that may inadvertently compromise its independence or facilitate unjust enrichment. Political leaders are urged to demonstrate ethical leadership by addressing the pressing issues raised by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops,” said Anyolo.
The statement emphasized the importance of preserving the Church’s independence and sanctity, highlighting ethical concerns surrounding political contributions.
