In the statement, the Kenyan Catholic Archbishop explains that the “political donations” towards Soweto Catholic Church are in violation of Kenya’s Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024 that requires fundraising appeals to have a permit.
“These funds will be refunded to the respective donors,” Archbishop Anyolo says, and adds, in reference to President Ruto’s pledge, “The promised additional KSh 3 million for the construction of the Fathers' house, as well as the donation of a parish bus by the President, are hereby declined.”
He says that members of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) had consistently maintained a firm stance on the matter of politicians donating money to churches, highlighting the ethical concerns and the need to safeguard the Church from being used for political purposes.
“The Catholic Church strongly discourages the use of church events such as fundraisers and gatherings as platforms for political self-promotion,” Archbishop Anyolo says, and adds, “Politicians are urged to refrain from turning the pulpit into a stage for political rhetoric, as such actions undermine the sanctity of worship spaces.”
According to the Local Ordinary of Nairobi Archdiocese, the Church is called to uphold integrity by refusing contributions that may “inadvertently” compromise her independence, or facilitate “unjust enrichment.”
Making reference to the letter that KCCB members issued on November 14 calling out the government for ignoring “pertinent unresolved issues”, Archbishop Anyolo says, “Political leaders are urged to demonstrate ethical leadership by addressing the pressing issues raised by the KCCB.”
He reiterates KCCB members’ message saying that politicians should address issues such as political wrangles, corruption, politics of self-interest, violations of human rights and freedom of speech, as well as “the culture of lies.”
Archbishop Anyolo also recalls KCCB members’ call for the attention of politicians in Kenya on issues surrounding the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and what they described as “unfulfilled promises, misplaced priorities, selfish agendas to extend terms of elected leaders, and over-taxation of Kenyans.”
He says that the Church must remain a neutral entity, free from political influence, to effectively serve as a space for spiritual growth and community guidance.
In his November 18 statement, Archbishop Anyola says that while politicians are welcome to attend Church for their spiritual nourishment, they must do so as ordinary Christians, “without leveraging their positions for political gain.”
