Kenya Kwanza leaders, led by President William Ruto’s close aide, Farouk Kibet, have boldly reaffirmed their commitment to conducting harambees in churches, dismissing criticism and insisting their contributions are acts of pure generosity and faith.
Despite President Ruto’s earlier directive banning church harambees, the leaders continued the practice, spearheading a mega fundraiser at Tebeswet Primary School in Uasin Gishu County, where 25 churches benefited from their donations.
The Power of Giving: Biblical Justification
Speaking at the event, the leaders passionately defended their contributions, citing scriptural references to underscore their position.
Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka declared, “Giving is biblical. Deuteronomy 16:17 says that no one should appear before the Lord empty-handed.”
His Uasin Gishu counterpart, Governor Jonathan Bii, echoed the sentiment, linking the act of building churches to Christ’s own words.“One of the reasons Jesus was crucified was because He said, ‘I will destroy this temple and rebuild it in three days.’"
Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe took it a step further, arguing that churches play a crucial role in maintaining societal order.“Without churches, many people would have turned to crime. If you oppose God’s work, then you are supporting evil.”
Ksh.11 Million Raised, Despite Earlier Ban
The leaders defied government inconsistency on church donations, collectively raising Ksh.11 million, a move seen as a direct continuation of President Ruto’s recent Ksh.20 million church contribution in Nairobi, followed by another donation last Sunday in Uasin Gishu.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot challenged those questioning their generosity, warning that today’s debate could soon escalate.“If giving tithes and holding harambees in churches has now become a matter of public debate, then the church must stand firm. If you do not take a stand, soon even the offerings you give will be scrutinized.”
Kilifi North MP Owen Baya dismissed critics as envious, stating,“The Bible does not set a limit on what one should give. Even the wise men brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus. The Bible tells us to bring valuable offerings to the church. Those who are envious should deal with it.”
Gachagua Under Fire Over Social Health Authority
The event also became a political battleground, with the leaders tearing into former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his recent opposition to the Social Health Authority (SHA)—a policy he had once supported while in government.
Farouk Kibet threw a direct jab, questioning Gachagua’s shifting stance and his claims that Ruto would only serve one term.“Those who were previously advocating for shares in government are now the same people saying the President will only serve one term. Do they really believe that?”
A Growing Rift in Kenya Kwanza?
The event highlighted growing contradictions within the Kenya Kwanza government. While Ruto had announced an end to church harambees, his allies have openly defied the directive, raising millions in donations and defending their actions with biblical references.
With political tensions rising and cracks within Kenya Kwanza becoming more apparent, it remains to be seen how the President will navigate the delicate balance between enforcing policy and maintaining his political base.
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