Kenya Kwanza leaders defend church contributions amid policy contradictions

Speaking in Uasin Gishu County, the leaders criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for his opposition to the Social Health Authority (SHA), despite supporting it while in government. 

The leaders continued from where President William Ruto had left off, despite his earlier declaration banning contributions in churches. 

Speaking at Tebeswet Primary School in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya Kwanza leaders, including Farouk Kibet, spearheaded a harambee that brought together 25 churches. They asserted that they would not abandon the practice of making contributions.

Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka stated, “Giving is biblical. Deuteronomy 16:17 says that no one should appear before the Lord empty-handed.” Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii added, “Building churches has existed since ancient times. One of the reasons Jesus was crucified was because he said, ‘I will destroy this temple and rebuild it in three days.’” 

Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe emphasized the role of churches in society, saying, “Without churches, many people would have turned to crime. If you oppose God’s work, then you are supporting evil.” 

The leaders contributed a total of Ksh.11 million, insisting their actions were rooted in biblical teachings.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot noted, “If giving tithes and holding harambees in churches has now become a matter of public debate, then the church must stand firm. If you do not take a stand, soon even the offerings you give will be scrutinized.” 

Kilifi North MP Owen Baya added, “The Bible does not set a limit on what one should give. Even the wise men brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus. The Bible tells us to bring valuable offerings to the church. That is why we are here to contribute. Those who are envious should deal with it.”

The event took place just days after President Ruto pledged to contribute Ksh.20 million to a church in Nairobi, followed by another donation last Sunday in Uasin Gishu County. 

This contradicts the government’s earlier declaration banning harambees in churches, raising questions about its consistency on the matter.

The leaders also took aim at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for his criticism of the Social Health Authority. 

Farouk Kibet remarked, “Those who were previously advocating for shares are now the same people saying the president will only serve one term. Do they really believe that?”