Kenyan President Announces Plans for Controversial Church at State House

Kenyan President William Ruto's recent announcement to build a $9 million church at his official Nairobi residence has sparked public outrage and legal threats from secular groups, raising concerns about governance and religious favoritism in a diverse nation.

Kenya's President William Ruto has confirmed plans for a significant church construction at the State House in Nairobi, claiming he will finance the project personally. The ambitious undertaking, projected to cost $9 million and accommodate 8,000 congregants, has drawn sharp criticism, particularly regarding its appropriateness on state property and within the context of Kenya’s secular constitution.

"I am not going to ask anyone for an apology for building a church. The devil might be angry and can do what he wants," Ruto proclaimed at a press conference. This declaration has infuriated many Kenyans, who are already discontent with the president's leadership and the perceived blurring of lines between government and religion.

Local media outlet Daily Nation recently showcased architectural plans illustrating a grand church with stained glass windows. Critics have voiced concerns over the feasibility of such an expenditure at a time when many citizens are grappling with economic hardships.

While Ruto maintains that the funds will come from his personal finances, questions linger regarding the legitimacy of erecting a large house of worship on government land. Additionally, the Atheists Society of Kenya has expressed intentions to take legal action against the project, labeling it an affront to democracy and an endorsement of Christian nationalism.

Harrison Mumia, the group's head, asserted, "We want to remind him that Kenya does not belong to Christians only." Ruto, Kenya's first evangelical Christian president, is known for his overt religiosity, which has both endeared him to many Christian followers and distanced him from other segments of the population.

Kenya's religious landscape is diverse, with approximately 85% of the populace identifying as Christian, alongside an estimated 11% Muslim community and various other faiths. The absence of a mosque or temple on the presidential grounds has not gone unnoticed by leaders of other denominations. Nairobi's Catholic Archbishop Philip Anyolo has urged caution and requested more clarity regarding the proposed structure to ensure it does not favor any one group.

"We have to be very cautious with this," he remarked, noting that such a building should ideally be situated outside of public premises to avoid conflict.

With the controversy intensifying, citizens and political observers will be watching closely as Ruto moves forward with this contentious building plan.