President William Ruto on Sunday donated Ksh. 5 million to Crispinus Anglican Church in Bungoma, fueling an ongoing debate about political donations to religious institutions and the intersection of politics and the pulpit.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka personally delivered the cash donation to the church in a backpack.

Speaking to the congregation, Lusaka defended the contribution, saying there was nothing inappropriate about leaders supporting the work of the Church.

“There is nothing wrong with leaders contributing to God’s work,” Lusaka said as he removed bundles of cash from a grey backpack in a video widely circulated from the Thanksgiving ceremony.

"I hope haitarudishwa," Lusaka joked, "mkikataa mnipatie mimi mwenyewe." 

The donation comes in the wake of the Catholic Church's decision to reject Ksh. 5.6 million previously donated by President Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to the Soweto Catholic Church. 

In a statement released on November 14, 2024, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) emphasised the Church's commitment to maintaining its independence and sanctity.

The KCCB directive, which was read in all Catholic churches across the Archdiocese on November 17, 2024, emphasised ethical concerns about political contributions and cautioned against using religious platforms for political gain.

Archbishop Philip A. Anyolo, speaking on behalf of the Archdiocese, reiterated the Church's opposition to such donations, citing the recently passed Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, which aims to regulate fundraising efforts and prevent potential abuse.

“The Church cannot be an avenue for political gain or manipulation. Its sanctity must be preserved,” Archbishop Anyolo stated.

Despite the Catholic Church’s firm stance, Ruto’s allies have continued to defend the practice of political leaders donating to churches. 

Speaking in Kajiado on Sunday, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah argued that such contributions are an expression of faith rather than political opportunism.

“The Church belongs to Christ, not an individual bishop. When we donate, it is an act of worship and obedience to God’s command, not a political statement,” Ichung’wah said.

Governor Lusaka echoed similar sentiments, urging the clergy to engage political leaders respectfully and constructively.

“As leaders, we represent the voice of the people and welcome criticism, but it must be delivered with decorum and based on accurate information,” Lusaka remarked.

The controversy over church donations has reignited national debates about the Church's role in politics and whether politicians use religious institutions to curry favour with voters. 

Critics argue that such acts undermine the integrity of the Church, while supporters see them as a legitimate form of giving back to society.