Aasai

President William Ruto has responded firmly to growing criticism regarding his intention to build a church within the State House compound in Nairobi. The Head of State refuted claims circulating in the media that the construction of the chapel would cost Kenyan taxpayers KSh. 1.2 billion, branding such reports as baseless propaganda designed to mislead the public and incite unnecessary controversy.

While many Kenyans have raised concerns and expressed outrage over the timing and priority of the project, Ruto remains unshaken in his resolve. Speaking during a Sunday church service hosted by the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Embu Diocese at Kigari Teachers Training College in Embu County, the President clarified that the idea of having a place of worship within the State House is not new. He explained that upon assuming office, he found that a chaplain was already stationed at State House, and a small iron-sheet church built nearly a century ago was in place for staff and their families.

President Ruto emphasized that since other parts of the State House are currently undergoing renovation, it would be inconsiderate to leave the old chapel in its dilapidated condition. He insisted that the new church is not an extravagant project but rather a simple and necessary upgrade to provide a dignified worship space for the over 300 staff and families living and working within the premises.

“I will build that church using my own personal resources,” Ruto affirmed, adding that the cost would be minimal. He dismissed the widely circulated KSh. 1.2 billion figure as exaggerated and malicious. He accused some elements in the media and political space of using inflated numbers and fabricated stories to derail his leadership and distract the nation from development agendas. “That propaganda does not scare me,” he asserted.

The President’s comments appeared to be a direct response to criticism from prominent religious figures, including Anglican Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, who had questioned and wanted to know  the motive behind establishing a church at the nation’s highest seat of power. Ruto, however, laughed off the suggestion that he is trying to assume a religious title. “I heard someone asking if I want to become a bishop,” he said with a scoff. “No, I am a believer. This chapel is for the spiritual well-being of the State House community — not for show, not for politics.”

During the same event in Embu, President Ruto donated KSh. 20 million to support the ACK Embu Diocese in their plan to build an 11-storey commercial complex estimated to cost KSh. 387 million. He encouraged the people of Embu to unite behind the project, viewing it as a sustainable investment for the future of the church.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire praised the President’s generosity and echoed his call for community support. She expressed confidence that the residents would step up if called upon. The gathering drew clergy, politicians, and hundreds of congregants, reinforcing Ruto’s continued alignment of his presidency with faith-based initiatives even amid mounting political and social criticism.