38 arrested, released in Roysambu protests over President Ruto church donation

The youth insist the funds, sourced from taxpayers, should be redirected to address pressing national issues such as unemployment and struggling public institutions.

The tense standoff escalated into chaos as hundreds of police officers moved to block the surging crowd. Undeterred, the protesters hurled stones, prompting police to retaliate with volleys of tear gas. The demonstrators seized key roads, including Thika Road, bringing traffic to a standstill and intensifying the confrontation.

Joshua, a Gen Z protester, voiced the frustrations of many: “I’m here because our country’s money is being misused. Why are we giving KSh 20 million to a church when we have no jobs? Universities are closing, and our future is at stake.”

Under the watchful eyes of heavily deployed police officers—both in uniform and plainclothes—Jesus Winner Ministry held a brief but defiant service. Every entrance and corner of the church was secured, with worshippers standing firm in their resolve.

They vowed not to return the funds and emphasized that no amount of protest would disrupt their faith.

John Warui, a church member, defended the donation, stating, “That KSh 20 million you say is too little. We, ourselves, contribute even KSh 40 million to the church.” Margaret Nyawera, another worshipper, added, “I was not afraid of anything today. I said, if it’s about dying or living, let me die at the altar.”

Journalists covering the event found themselves caught in the crossfire. A Citizen TV cameraperson, attempting to capture the dramatic arrest of Gen Z protesters by General Service Unit (GSU) officers, was targeted by police. In a swift and hostile move, officers wrestled his camera and phone away, deleting all footage.

Carey Mulindi, the photographer, recounted the incident: “They caught me, took my camera, took my phone, and deleted everything.

The clashes continued late into the night, with protesters standing their ground despite tear gas and arrests. They vowed to continue their fight, insisting that the church must reject hefty political donations. Their message was clear: this was only the beginning.

Joshua, the Gen Z protester, reiterated their determination: “We have succeeded, and we will not sit down while they continue ruining our country. It’s not over, I repeat, it’s not over. We’ll be back.”

Thirty-eight protesters arrested while attempting to storm the church were held at Kasarani Police Station but were later released without charges. The incident has sparked a broader debate about the use of public funds and the role of political donations in religious institutions.