Weeks after a church project at State House sparked debate over government spending, President William Ruto has reaffirmed plans to build a larger and permanent place of worship.
Speaking during a Sunday service at the State House Chapel, the President emphasised his commitment to improving worship facilities for those within the State House compound.
“Through God’s grace, we hope to have a place where people can worship without sitting outside the church,” Ruto said.
"I am confident that God will make provisions for us to have a place where we can worship in this compound."
The construction of the church has faced legal hurdles after the High Court barred the Ruto administration from constructing a permanent church within the precincts of State House, Nairobi, or any other State Lodge, pending the determination of a petition challenging the move.
In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Justice E.C. Mwita issued a conservatory order restraining the government and its agents “from constructing a permanent church or building associated with any religious faith within the Grounds of State House, Nairobi or any other State House or State Lodges until 18th November 2025.”
The petition was filed by Transparency International Kenya, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and two others against the Katiba Institute and the State Law Office.
The petitioners argued that the construction of a religious facility inside State House raises fundamental constitutional concerns regarding the separation of State and religion.
On national unity, the President urged all Kenyans to work together so the country can build a progressive and prosperous future.
“Let’s pray to God to bring unity to our nation so that we can have a unified progressive and prosperous nation,” he said.
“We see the hand of God in everything that we do, including the education of our children, health programs, youth employment and the housing agenda. All I’m asking for is that all of us put effort in all our sectors.”
His remarks come amid escalating political tensions between Ruto and sections of the opposition, including his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, all of whom are angling for the presidency in the next polls slated for 2027.
