President Ruto: "I'm Using My Own Money to Build Church at State House"

 

By Janet Philip

President William Ruto has addressed growing speculation over the construction of a church at the State House grounds, clarifying that he is personally funding the project and not using public resources.

Speaking during a meeting with grassroots leaders from Embu County on June 4, 2025, President Ruto dismissed claims that a new church was being built using taxpayer funds. Instead, he stated that the chapel already existed when he assumed office—albeit in modest form—and that he took it upon himself to improve the structure.

“I believe in God, and I have no apologies to make for building a church. We will build the church of God,” Ruto said. “It is true I am building a church here in State House. I found a tin chapel here, that is not the standard of a State House.”

The president emphasized that the decision to upgrade the chapel was driven by personal conviction, not by official policy or budgetary allocation.

“I am using my own money, not government money,” he said. “I did not start building the church; I found it built, only that it was a mabati one. I simply offered to help improve it so that worshippers can have a more dignified place to gather.”

The remarks come amid a broader national conversation about the role of religion in government spaces. While some Kenyans have raised concerns about the blending of religious and state affairs, others have welcomed the initiative, calling it a show of faith and respect for Kenya’s spiritual heritage.

Several religious leaders and supporters have praised the president for honoring the place of worship within the seat of power. “The church plays a major role in shaping the values of our nation, and it’s encouraging to see that reflected even at State House,” said Bishop Samuel Muriithi of the Full Gospel Churches of Kenya.

This is not the first time President Ruto’s faith has been publicly discussed. Known for his deep Christian beliefs, he has frequently attended church services and prayer meetings across the country, often invoking God in his speeches and governance philosophy.

As the church renovation continues, the president’s declaration appears aimed at putting to rest any assumptions that state funds are involved, even as it fuels debate on the place of faith in Kenya’s political leadership.