National Assembly Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah has urged religious leaders to ignore those criticizing their collaboration with government.
Speaking during a church service in Khwisero, Kakamega County on Sunday, Ichung’wah said the partnership between the church and the government will foster peace and stability to the country.
He urged the clergy to not shy from holding meetings with President William Ruto, noting that they also play a cardinal role in offering leadership advise to the government.“I see on social media pastors being condemned because they have gone to State House. What the President said [is] that we shall continue to consult with everybody,” said Ichung’wah.
“Buy no fear, it is your State House. Pray with the President, advise him and also get counsel from him on things you can work with the government to help Kenyans.”
The legislator further censured those attacking church leaders who are warming up to the state, maintaining that the partnership will be extended to have more members visiting State House.
“We will continue to welcome even many more and even ordinary Kenyans will have ideas on the growth of our country,” added Ichung’wah.
“Wale was kupiga kelele waendelee lakini wenye wanataka kusaidia wananchi waendelee kufanya hivyo.”
He also gave the Church a Ksh.5 million donation on behalf of President Ruto, a move that has been harshly condemned by a section of church leaders in the nation.
Recently, on November 17, 2024, the Archdiocese of Nairobi returned Ksh.2.8 million donated by President Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
The Archdiocese rejected the money made at Soweto Catholic Church, saying that the rejection aligns with Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) directives and the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024.
Sakaja donated Ksh.200,000 to the Parish Choir and Parish Missionary Council (PMC), while the President donated Ksh.600,000 to the same organisations.
President Ruto also contributed Ksh.2 million to the Father’s house construction.
Ruto has however maintained that he will not cower from making monetary donations to churches and will further continue to work with willing church leaders to foster effective leadership.
By Eric Ayiro
