Ruto Defends Ksh1.2 Billion State House Church, Says He Has No Apologies
President William Ruto has strongly defended his decision to build a church worth Ksh1.2 billion at State House in Nairobi, dismissing growing public criticism about the move.
Speaking on Friday, July 4, during an event at State House, the President said he had “no apologies” to make for constructing the church, despite the backlash from Kenyans facing tough economic conditions.
He described the opposition to the project as “works of satan,” insisting that building a place of worship at the official residence of the President was not something he would ever regret.
“When we came into office, we found a church made out of iron sheets inside State House. I have no apologies for building a proper church here,” Ruto stated firmly.
Addressing questions about where the funding is coming from, Ruto denied allegations that government funds were being used.
He clarified that he would personally finance the entire project. “Not a single cent of taxpayers’ money will be used for this church. I will build it using my own resources because the house of God deserves honor and dignity,” he explained.
President Ruto emphasized that his strong Christian beliefs were the main reason he decided to construct the church.
He brushed off critics who questioned the decision, especially during a time when many Kenyans are struggling to afford basic needs.
The news of the new church was first reported by the Daily Nation, which revealed that the structure will be large enough to host 8,000 worshippers.
According to the publication, the building’s design features tall stained-glass windows and crosses, giving it a traditional church appearance.
Additional details show that the church will not only be used for religious worship but will also host national prayer events, interfaith gatherings, and diplomatic meetings. It is expected to serve multiple ceremonial and official purposes.
However, the decision has sparked widespread anger from many Kenyans, who feel the project is unnecessary and shows how out of touch the government is with the challenges citizens are currently facing.
Many argue that building a multi-billion shilling church is not a priority when people are grappling with high costs of living, unemployment, and food insecurity.
The church construction is happening while State House is also undergoing extensive renovations, which are being paid for using public funds.
According to the Controller of Budget, by September 2024, the government had already spent Ksh775 million on renovating State House, out of a total budget of Ksh1.7 billion.
In the latest 2025/2026 national budget, more funds have been allocated to further upgrade State House and various presidential residences across the country.
Over Ksh800 million has been assigned for this purpose, with Ksh680 million going specifically towards renovation works at State House Nairobi.
Budget documents for the 2025/2026 financial year show that the Executive Office of the President has been allocated Ksh2.3 billion.
A large chunk of this amount is set aside for the ongoing maintenance and upgrades of State House and other presidential lodges.
This trend of high expenditure on official residences began shortly after President Ruto assumed office in 2022.
Despite the public criticism, President Ruto remains unapologetic and committed to completing the church, saying it is part of his mission to honor God while serving the nation.
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