President Ruto Vows to Fund Church Completion, Proposes Public Fundraising Bill to Curb Corruption

President William Ruto has pledged to provide financial support to complete the construction of a church in Nyandarua County, while also announcing the upcoming introduction of a Public Fundraising Appeals Bill.

The proposed legislation aims to regulate state officials’ involvement in public fundraising activities, such as harambees, in order to prevent the infiltration of corruption proceeds.

During a church service at the A.I.P.C.A Ndogino, Ruto acknowledged the pressure he has faced to stop participating in church fundraisers. However, the President emphasized the need to find a structured way to continue supporting church construction while ensuring transparency and adherence to the word of God.

Ruto stated, “There are people who have really pushed us to stop harambees in churches. Now how will the churches be built? The good thing is that the Bill will be brought to you through public participation forums. You will have the final say so that corruption does not creep into the churches but we find a way of continue building churches but in a more structured way that respects the word of God.”

The President directed the local member of parliament, Gachagua, to work with the church’s priest to provide the remaining cost for the church’s completion.

President Ruto then promised to write a cheque to cover the outstanding amount, ensuring the church’s construction can be finalized.

This development comes after Ruto’s earlier declaration on July 5, 2024, prohibiting state officers from participating in fundraising activities.

The President has now directed the Attorney General to prepare and submit the Public Fundraising Appeals Bill, which aims to establish a transparent mechanism for public, charitable, and philanthropic contributions.

The proposed legislation is expected to address concerns raised by the public regarding the sources of funds distributed during harambees by various leaders, prompting the President to take action to curb potential corruption.