Keep Off Your Corruption Money, Catholic Bishops Tell Kenya Kwanza Government
Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki congratulates the newly ordained Co-adjutor Bishop of Meru Diocese Jackson Murugara. Photo/Alex Njeru.
By Alex Njeru
Catholic Bishops in Kenya, led by Archbishop Anthony Muheria of the Archdiocese of Nyeri, have reiterated their firm stance against accepting donations tainted by corruption.
Speaking at Kinoru Stadium in Meru town during the ordination of the Co-adjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Meru, Rt. Rev. Jackson Murugara, the bishops emphasized that while the Church has historically relied on donations since its inception by Jesus Christ, it will not accept ill-gotten wealth.
Archbishop Muheria stressed that church contributions should be made discreetly and humbly, rather than as a tool for public relations.
“The Church will continue to fight corruption because that is one of its responsibilities, and we will not accept corruption money,” he declared.
Adding to the criticism, the Catholic Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Hubertus Matheus Maria van Megen, took a swipe at the Kenya Kwanza government.
He advised the newly ordained bishop to avoid overtaxing churchgoers to fund development projects, making a veiled reference to President William Ruto’s controversial chapati-baking initiative.
The political tensions surrounding the event were evident when Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki abruptly cancelled his attendance.
Reports suggest he withdrew after being informed of the bishops’ perceived hostility toward Kenya Kwanza Government.
His aides later removed the chair and stool set for him. Archbishop Muheria read an apology note from the Deputy President, which conveyed congratulations to Bishop Murugara and a promise to support the Church.
Despite the presence of prominent political figures, including Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ithinkia and Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, no politician was given an opportunity to address the congregation.
The politicians were only allowed to shake the hand of the new bishop after the rest left.
Bishop Murugara, originally from Tharaka constituency in Tharaka Nithi County, expressed gratitude to his family and the Church for his spiritual journey.
He also acknowledged Pope Francis for entrusting him with the new role and pledged to serve with humility, teamwork, and a commitment to both spiritual and developmental growth.
The Catholic Church in Kenya has been vocal in its criticism of President Ruto’s administration, accusing it of corruption and poor governance.
Church leaders have warned against accepting money from politicians and, on occasion, have even threatened to return questionable donations.
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