President Ruto's Church Donation Triggers Protests in Nairobi

The recent donation of 20 million shillings to the Jesus Winner Ministry by President Ruto has led to clashes in Nairobi as protesters express anger over rising living costs and ask for accountability in governance.

Police in Kenya deployed tear gas against demonstrators who attempted to occupy a church that recently received a major donation from President William Ruto. The donation of 20 million shillings (approximately $155,000) to the Jesus Winner Ministry, located in the Roysambu area of Nairobi, incited backlash among youth grappling with escalating living expenses.

Ruto staunchly defended his donation, remarking that it aimed to combat the nation's moral challenges, and he also pledged a similar sum to another church in Eldoret. Notably, last year, both the Catholic and Anglican churches in Kenya declined donations citing concerns over the political influence on religious institutions.

The protests resulted in several arrests, with demonstrators attempting to access the church, set fires, and block roads with debris. However, reports indicate that the church service continued under heavy security for attendees.

Bishop Edward Mwai alleged that unidentified individuals organized "thugs" to disrupt the church activities, further escalating tensions. Ruto, an evangelical Christian, emphasized the necessity of reestablishing ethical values in Kenya, addressing the unrest during a visit to another church in Eldoret.

The rising dissatisfaction among citizens has been fueled by several tax increases implemented since Ruto took office in 2022, which he attributes to the massive debts inherited from the former administration. Critics argue that he should prioritize tackling misuse of public funds and corruption before imposing additional financial burdens on the populace.

Last year, widespread protests compelled Ruto to retract his Finance Bill, which sought to enforce further tax hikes.