30 Pentecostal Churches criticise Ruto over runaway corruption, governance issues

The Pentecostal Churches of Kenya escalated their criticism of President William Ruto on Wednesday, accusing his administration of widespread corruption, high taxes, and poor healthcare provision.

Through their umbrella organisation, Clergy Against Control and Regulation of Churches in Kenya, the group called out the Head of State for prioritising church donations over addressing key national concerns.

Speaking through their chairman, Stephen Ndicho, the group commended Archbishop Philip Anyolo of the Nairobi Archdiocese for ordering the return of funds donated by President Ruto to the Soweto Catholic Church during a service held on November 17, 2024.

"We commend Archbishop Anyolo for ordering the refund and return of money donated by President Ruto to their Soweto Catholic Church last Sunday," the clergy said on Wednesday.

"This action has effectively eliminated the Judas spirit of the clergy receiving bribes from politicians to influence their thinking and actions," added Ndicho who is also a former Kiambu County Assembly Speaker.

The church leaders accused religious organisations of compromising their moral authority by forming "unholy alliances" with the state, which they said have hindered the Church's role in holding the government accountable for transgressions and atrocities.

The clergy further condemned the government's transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), arguing that the new system was harming more Kenyans than it was helping.

They also raised concerns over the Kenya Revenue Authority's push to tax mobile money transfers, describing the current tax regime as oppressive and detrimental to businesses.

Citing data from the Federation of Kenyan Employers, the clergy noted that 45 per cent of salaried workers' incomes are now consumed by various taxes introduced under President Ruto's administration, including the housing levy, enhanced retirement contributions, and SHIF deductions.

Additionally, the group demanded the immediate formation of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to prepare for the 2027 elections.

They also sought answers and swift action against criminal activities, particularly those targeting women and girls, and called on the criminal justice system to address these issues urgently.

The Nairobi Archdiocese's decision to return President Ruto's donations was officially announced by Archbishop Anyolo.

The funds included Sh2 million for the construction of a priest's house and Sh600,000 donated to the choir.

Anyolo explained that accepting such contributions contravenes the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, which is currently under consideration in Parliament and aims to establish stringent guidelines on fundraising.

"The Church is called to uphold integrity by refusing contributions that may inadvertently compromise its independence or facilitate unjust enrichment. Political leaders are urged to demonstrate ethical leadership by addressing the pressing issues raised by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops," Anyolo said.

The Pentecostal Churches' criticism comes amid growing discontent from other religious organisations, including the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Anglican Church of Kenya, over the government's handling of governance and economic challenges.