Media personality Willis Raburu has criticized President William Ruto following his recent multimillion donation to Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu.
The president had pledged Ksh20 million from his pocket to support the construction of the church and promised an additional Ksh100 million at an upcoming fundraising event.
Raburu took to his X account on Monday, March 3, 2025, to express his concerns, questioning the priorities of the government. He suggested that the money would be better used to improve education and healthcare in the country.
“Wouldn’t it be great if 20 million was used to build classes for those reading under a tree in the 21st century and 100 million to maybe improve healthcare? I mean, if it exists, why not? Anyway, watasema ‘si pesa yangu’ Hmmm. The communication and PR problem with this government is the blatant display of grandeur while those they serve suffer,” Raburu stated.
Raburu also hit out at Kenyan National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who, during a recent interview on Al Jazeera‘s ‘Head to Head’ program, was wearing Christian Louboutin Red Bottoms shoes, known for their distinctive red soles and valued at approximately Ksh122,000. This did not go unnoticed by the audience, leading to discussions about the apparent contradiction between his statements and his attire.
The incident sparked conversations among Kenyans regarding the expectations of modesty and integrity from their leaders, especially in the context of economic challenges faced by the general populace
“In the same week, red bottom shoes went to an international interview and 20 million to a church. The words ‘cheza chini’ mean nothing,” Raburu wrote.
Ruto defends his donations
Despite increasing criticism over his frequent donations to churches, President Ruto has remained steadfast in his commitment to supporting religious institutions. While speaking at the Jesus Winner Ministry, he defended his actions, stating that he was raised in a culture of giving and that he would not stop making contributions to the church.
“I am a product of giving to God, and I am unapologetic about giving to God, and I do it on the firm foundation of the scriptures,” he told congregants.
The president further emphasized that his financial support for churches was aimed at strengthening faith and countering his political opponents.
“I have accepted to come and do harambee together, and in that harambee, I will make arrangements with my friends to look for Ksh 100 million and bring it here. We will build this church so that we shame our political enemies,” Ruto said.
Catholic Church
This is not the first time Ruto’s church donations have sparked public debate. In the past, he faced backlash from Kenyans and religious leaders over the source and frequency of his donations. The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) had previously raised concerns over politicians making large financial contributions to churches. In response, KCCB issued a directive barring all Catholic churches from accepting cash donations from politicians.
Notably, Nairobi Archdiocese Bishop Philip Anyolo rejected Ruto’s Ksh5.8 million donation meant for various church initiatives, including a choir contribution, church construction, and the purchase of a parish bus. While some churches have followed KCCB’s directive and turned down political donations, others continue to accept them.