President William Ruto is reportedly building a massive church within the grounds of State House, Nairobi.
The project, dubbed “Cathedral”, is expected to cost taxpayers around Ksh1.2 billion.
What does the Ruto Stahouse Church Look Like?
Reports show the church will accommodate up to 8,000 people.
And that it is already under construction near the presidential helicopter landing pad.
Architectural drawings reveal a towering structure with tall windows, a huge cross at the front, and another at the back. The design has been done by Skair Architects Limited.
Inside, the church will have four long rows of pews in the main hall, built to host thousands of worshippers. The most visible symbol is the large cross at the front, said to reflect President Ruto’s desire to make his faith central to his time in office.
Did you Know Ruto had a Home Chapel as Deputy President?
Ruto’s religious leaning is not new.
When he was Deputy President, Ruto had a National Prayer Altar, essentially a private chapel, at his official residence in Karen. It was inaugurated in August 2019 and frequently used for prayer gatherings with clergy leaders
This church now appears to be an extension of that, only bigger, more permanent, and now located at the country’s most powerful address.
The construction has raised many questions.
Kenyans are asking why the government would prioritize building a billion-shilling church when the country is facing serious challenges like unemployment, poor healthcare, and a high cost of living.
Others have flagged concerns about the Constitution. Kenya is a secular state, and some citizens feel that putting up a religious structure within State House crosses a line.
On social media, many expressed frustration, asking whether public land and money should be used for such a project, or if it should be privately funded instead.
While it’s underway, no official statement has confirmed whether the funds are from the government or private donations.
That silence has made people even more suspicious, especially given the high price tag.
Kenyan presidents have each left their mark. Kibaki is known for free education and roads, Uhuru for the SGR and Linda Mama. Now, Ruto seems to want his legacy to be a church at State House.
Source: The Nation.
By Vivian K.