Muslim Leaders Ask President Ruto to Build Mosque at State House After Ksh 1.2 Billion Church Project
Muslim leaders from across Kenya are now asking President William Ruto to build a mosque within State House grounds, just as he recently announced plans to construct a Ksh 1.2 billion church.
The demand comes after the President defended the expensive project, which has sparked widespread criticism from Kenyans.
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim leaders, Sheikh Abu Qatada, a representative of the Pwani Patriotic Religious Leaders group, said that the State House represents all Kenyans, regardless of their religion.
He stressed that it should not be seen as a place that favours only one faith, urging the President to ensure that Muslims are also provided with a place of worship.
“As Muslim leaders, we are raising our voices to request that a mosque be built at the State House, just like the Christians have been given a church.
We are all Kenyans, and if the State House is for everyone, then there must be equal treatment for all religions,” Sheikh Abu Qatada said.
He added that Muslims visiting the State House should also have a designated place for prayers, just as Christians will now have a proper church building. “If Christians can worship in the church at State House, then Muslims too should have a mosque for prayers when we are there,” he added.
This plea comes shortly after President Ruto publicly defended the controversial Ksh 1.2 billion church project during a Friday speech at State House on July 5.
Many Kenyans had criticized the move, accusing the Head of State of misusing public funds on what they described as a non-essential project. The backlash was especially strong on social media, with users calling for more focus on pressing national issues like the high cost of living and unemployment.
However, Ruto dismissed the criticism, insisting that the decision to build a church was a personal one driven by his faith. He stated firmly that the funding for the church was not coming from taxpayers, but from his own pocket.
“When we came into office, we found an iron sheet structure being used as a church in the State House. I decided to build a proper church, and I am using my own money to do so. I have no apologies to make,” President Ruto stated during his speech.
He went on to say that opposing the construction of a church at the State House is “the work of satan,” and emphasized that the house of God deserves respect and dignity. “Not even one cent of government money is being used. I am funding this church personally because I believe in honouring God,” he said.
President Ruto, who is well-known for his strong Christian beliefs, maintained that his deep faith inspired him to build the church and that he would not back down from his decision.
The growing concerns from the Muslim community now add another layer to the ongoing debate. Many Muslim leaders are calling for equal religious representation at the country’s highest office, insisting that all faiths should be treated fairly and that the government should not appear to prioritise one religion over others.
As the discussions continue, all eyes are now on President Ruto to see how he will respond to the call for a mosque at State House and whether he will take any steps to show inclusivity in matters of religion at the national level.
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