President Ruto Breaks Silence on Ksh1.2B State House Church Built to Host 8,000 Worshipers

President William Ruto has ignited fresh national debate after publicly defending the construction of a Ksh1.2 billion church at State House Nairobi, following days of growing public criticism and outrage. 

Addressing the nation on Friday, July 4, from State House, the Head of State firmly dismissed concerns over the cost and timing of the ambitious project. “When I was elected, we came in to find an iron sheet church in State House. I have no apologies to make for building a church at State House,” Ruto boldly declared. 

With many Kenyans raising concerns over whether the massive structure is being funded by taxpayers, especially during one of the worst economic periods in recent memory, Ruto was quick to clarify the source of the funds. 

Ruto insisted that no public money is being used in the construction of the church. “The construction of the Church is not costing the government a single cent. I will build the church with my own money because the church of God is something that demands respect,” he noted, citing his deep-rooted Christian faith as the driving force behind the initiative. 

He went further to describe the backlash from critics as the “works of satan,” reaffirming that he remains committed to building a sanctuary at the nation’s highest seat of power. 

The initial report, broken by the Daily Nation, revealed that the monumental church will be able to accommodate up to 8,000 people. Its grand design includes tall stained-glass windows and crosses, architectural elements meant to reflect deep religious symbolism. 

But it’s not just for Sunday services. The planned church is expected to serve multiple roles, from hosting national prayer services and diplomatic gatherings to interfaith ceremonies, making it a multipurpose spiritual and state venue. 

Despite Ruto’s explanations, public anger continues to swell. Many Kenyans have taken to social media to accuse the president of having severely misplaced priorities, especially at a time when millions are grappling with the high cost of living, fuel hikes, and unemployment. Critics argue that the president appears increasingly disconnected from the harsh realities facing the average citizen. 

The timing of the church’s construction adds more fuel to the fire. It coincides with ongoing State House renovations funded by taxpayers. According to the Controller of Budget, Ksh775 million had already been spent on renovations by September 2024, from a total budget of Ksh1.7 billion. 

The new 2025/2026 national budget has raised even more eyebrows. Over Ksh800 million has been earmarked for the facelift of State House and other State Lodges, with Ksh680 million specifically dedicated to State House Nairobi alone. 

Budget estimates show that out of the Ksh2.3 billion set aside for the Executive Office of the President, a significant portion continues to be channeled into refurbishment and high-end maintenance — a trend that started soon after Ruto assumed office in 2022. 

As the controversy rages on, the conversation now shifts beyond architecture and religion. For many, it’s a defining moment to reflect on the administration’s moral compass and its understanding of the daily struggles of the people it claims to serve.