Opposition leaders have strongly condemned President William Ruto’s ongoing construction of a church within the State House grounds, calling it an abuse of public resources and a violation of the Constitution. Speaking during the funeral of Gladys Gathoni, the aunt of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, in Mathira Constituency, Nyeri County, the leaders accused the president of blurring the lines between personal beliefs and state affairs.
Their criticism follows President Ruto’s recent confirmation that the church, still under construction, is being funded through his personal resources. However, opposition leaders questioned the financial logic and legality of the move.
“Kama unatumia pesa zako Ksh.1.3 billion na mshahara wako ni Ksh.1.4 million, how many years will you take to complete it?” posed Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. “This is a constitutional issue. Kenyans are not fools.”
Citing Article 8 of the Constitution, which prohibits the establishment of any state religion, Kalonzo and others argued that constructing a church within State House—a public institution—is a misuse of public property.
Former Attorney General Justin Muturi emphasized that any development on public land requires public participation. “The land on which State House sits belongs to the public. If you are building a church, it must go through public processes. Wajinga waliisha Kenya,” he declared.
Martha Karua, leader of the Narc Kenya party, urged President Ruto to build the church on his private properties instead. “State House is not personal property. Go to Karen or Sugoi if you want to build a church,” she said.
The opposition also used the occasion to warn state agencies against disrupting planned Saba Saba demonstrations, asserting the public’s right to protest.
Cleophas Malala joined in criticizing the president’s actions, stating, “The Constitution is being perforated. Kenya is not a religious state.”
The leaders concluded by eulogizing the late Gladys Gathoni, praising her as a pillar of peace and leadership, even as their remarks underscored growing tensions over governance and constitutional integrity in Kenya.
