President William Ruto’s senior economic advisor, Moses Kuria, has expressed support for the Catholic Church following its decision to reject donations made by President Ruto.
In a statement on Tuesday, November 19, Kuria, a Roman Catholic, emphasized his unwavering belief in the church’s authority.
“My two rules as a Roman Catholic who has gone through the Catechism process from Baptism, Holy Eucharist, Altar Boy to confirmation (as Francis) by the late Michael Cardinal Otunga of Kibabii. Rule Number 1 – The Catholic Church is always right. Rule Number 2 – In case the Catholic Church is wrong, refer to Rule Number 1,” he stated.
Kuria’s remarks come amid criticism from a section of Ruto-allied politicians against the church’s decision.
Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi defended Ruto on Tuesday, accusing church leaders of seeking assistance for projects but later opposing the help.
“Those local pastors and believers are the ones who make contributions until some of them run away because they have to contribute every Sunday. I wonder why someone would oppose help being offered in the local churches,” Sudi said.
He reiterated that politicians would continue supporting churches, insisting they are part of the body of Christ. Sudi also sought forgiveness from church leaders for any missteps.
“I can see that the Bishops are unhappy and they now want to refund the money donated to the church. I want to ask for forgiveness because sometimes we go straight to the local churches without going through them,” he added.
On Monday, Metropolitan Archbishop Most Rev. Philip Anyolo announced that Soweto Catholic Church would refund donations made by Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
In a statement, Anyolo explained that the contributions violated the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill.
“Consequently, the donations made to Soweto Catholic Church on Sunday, 17th November 2024, are in violation of these directives and the law. These include the Governor of Nairobi’s donation of Sh 200,000 to the parish choir and Parish Missionary Council (PMC); the President’s donation of Sh 600,000 to the choir and PMC; and Sh 2 million for the construction of the Fathers’ house. These funds will be refunded to the respective donors. Furthermore, the promised additional Sh 3 million for the construction of the Fathers’ house, as well as the donation of a parish bus by the President, are hereby declined,” the statement read.
