President Ruto Hosts Catholic Bishops at State House
President William Ruto with Kenyan Catholic bishops at State House, Nairobi, on June 28, 2024.
Dialogue for National Solutions
President William Ruto convened Kenyan Catholic bishops at State House, Nairobi, to discuss solutions for the country’s challenges.
Leadership of the Delegation
Archbishop Maurice Muhatia, Chairman of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), led the clergy delegation, as highlighted in President Ruto’s statement on X.
Commitment to Multi-Sectoral Engagement
“We welcome the Catholic Church’s commitment to finding solutions across sectors,” President Ruto emphasized, aiming to propel Kenya forward collectively.
Call to Separate Politics and Religion
Amid growing public demand online, a prominent activist launched the ‘#CleanTheAltar‘ campaign to exclude politicians, including the President, from church affairs.
Activist Initiates Campaign
Mombasa-based hotel expert Mwabili Mwagodi initiated the campaign, contacting church leaders directly to discourage political involvement in religious settings.
Protest Against President Ruto
Before launching his campaign, Mwagodi led protests in Nyahururu against President Ruto’s policies, sparking controversy during a church ceremony in Nyahururu.
Confrontation Outside Church Venue
During President Ruto’s address at ACK Nyahururu Diocese Church, Mwagodi and protesters chanted anti-Finance Bill 2024 slogans, prompting the President to hastily leave amid heightened tensions.
Shift to Online Activism
Now focusing on online platforms, Mwagodi gathers church leaders’ contacts, issuing warnings against hosting political figures on church altars.
Direct Communication with Church Leaders
Mwagodi messaged Reverend Simon Mutahi, cautioning against hosting First Lady Rachel Ruto at a fundraiser, citing concerns over government corruption.
Response from Church Leaders
Reverend Mutahi assured Mwagodi that the First Lady would not attend, extending an invitation for constructive engagement despite initial apprehensions.
This dynamic situation underscores the intersection of politics and religion in Kenya’s societal discourse, prompting vigorous debate on governance and civic responsibility.
