The controversy surrounding President William Ruto’s proposed mega-church at State House, Nairobi, has taken a fiery turn after Bishop Samuel Ngacha publicly criticized opponents of the project, labeling them as “anti-Christ.”
Speaking during a clergy gathering hosted by President Ruto at State House on Wednesday, Bishop Ngacha strongly defended the initiative. He argued that constructing a modern house of worship on the premises aligns with Kenya’s deep-rooted Christian heritage.
“There are two iron-sheet churches at State House—one Catholic, one Protestant. The President has been clear that he only wants to upgrade them,” Bishop Ngacha stated.
🔥 “Those Opposing the Altar Must Be Anti-Christ”
Ngacha questioned the motives of critics, suggesting their opposition lacks sincerity and is spiritually misguided.
“If you see anyone who is against an altar, they must be anti-Christ,” he declared, drawing from biblical examples to reinforce his point.
He referenced the Gospels, where Jesus told his disciples not to stop others from performing good deeds in His name, applying the same logic to the construction of the church.
🏛️ President Ruto’s Stand on the Church Project
President Ruto has consistently maintained that the initiative is simply meant to upgrade the decades-old places of worship within State House and provide a suitable environment for spiritual nourishment.
Despite this, the project has been met with intense public scrutiny. Critics argue it raises ethical questions about the use of public property and resources for religious purposes in a secular republic.
🗣️ Public Debate Intensifies
The church proposal has sparked a national conversation, with religious leaders, civil society, and lawmakers taking opposing sides.
Senator Okiya Omtatah recently demanded transparency on whether public funds are being used to finance the church construction, citing State House’s status as public property.
Supporters argue that the President, as a devout Christian, has the right to worship and that staff at State House should also have access to a proper place of worship.
🇰🇪 Kenya’s Faith & Politics Intertwined
The church project reflects the increasingly blurred line between religion and politics in Kenya. With President Ruto frequently invoking faith in governance, his move to formalize worship spaces within the country’s highest office is seen by some as symbolic—but by others as controversial.
As the debate continues, religious leaders like Bishop Ngacha remain firm in their support, while critics push for legal and ethical clarity.
