A photo grid of ACK Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit and President William Ruto. Ole Sapit has dismissed plans to build church at State House. Photo: William Ruto/ACK Church X.
Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit has publicly called out President William Ruto over his plan to construct a church worth KSh 1.2B at State House Nairobi.
According to Ole Sapit, Ruto’s plan overrides the role of government and faith. Speaking to Nation, Ole Sapit said he fully supports building of churches, but not of the recent proposed location by the head of state.
He said that the fight is not about religion or worship, but the underlying guidelines provided by the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which are being affected by the project, which will be situated at the executive seat of power for the nation.
“I’ve no problem with building a place of worship. The problem is the location. The State House is the seat of power of a human institution called the government,” he remarked.
The Archbishop warned that constructing a church at State House sends a problematic message about the role of religion in governance, directly clashing with Kenya’s constitutional commitment to secularism, stating that there shall be no State religion.
His remarks coming as Muslim leaders in Mombasa have also demanded that President William Ruto to construct a mosque of similar status at State House, calling for the rights of Muslim faithful.
Ole Sapit questioned the motive behind the construction of the church, questioning whether it will be the Kingdom of God or a political establishment. According to him, Ruto could take over the leadership of the church, known for taking charge in everything, and his recent public stunts praying at different State functions.
“The Church is a sanctuary to worship God, and it is supposed to be set apart from any unholy use, representing God’s kingdom. When you have a church in State House, which kingdom does it represent? Will the president be the bishop or leader of this church, as we have seen him recently lead public prayers?” Ole Sapit questioned.
The Anglican leader further stated that there are churches close to State House that could serve staff working there, adding that the construction is not a priority, which might jeopardize the security of the nation, as some with ill motives might come to church in the name of worshipping.
“This is not a priority. The said church will undermine the security of State House as many will come in the name of worship with other intentions,” he cautioned.
On Friday, the president confirmed the construction of 8,000 capacity church at State House. Defending himself Ruto said he found a mabati church, not matching the status quo of State House, and has no apology to make to anyone, as he is building using his own money.
About the Author
