An old video of former President Uhuru Kenyatta has resurfaced online amid growing public debate over large church donations from politicians.
The video, which is being widely shared, captures Uhuru warning religious leaders against accepting questionable funds without scrutiny.
In the clip, Uhuru, speaking in Kikuyu, criticises church leaders for deceiving their congregants by legitimising donations that could be proceeds of corruption.
"And you people of the church, stop deceiving our people. Tell them the truth. There is not a single one of us who does not love God or peace. Everyone gives according to their ability, but do not come here with stolen money to mislead us."
He also takes issue with individuals who flaunt wealth in church while many Kenyans struggle.
"It is unacceptable for you to flaunt stolen money and then tell us where we should go while holding a Bible. You are the one headed for hell, not these people."
The former president further references the stalled Sh3 billion Arror and Kimwarer dam project in Elgeyo Marakwet, suggesting that the money meant for the dam ended up in private pockets.
"The money you are enjoying was meant to bring water to the people of Elgeyo Marakwet-a Sh3 billion dam project so that God's children could have water and farm. Instead, it has ended up in someone's pocket. Then they donate Sh2 million and come here singing Hallelujah."
Uhuru then calls on Kenyans to reject tainted money, saying it is better to earn honestly than to benefit from stolen wealth.
"Take money that has been earned honestly. I would rather receive Sh100 from my hard work than millions that have denied someone their rightful share in this country."
This was deep.Uhuru Kenyatta knew who Ruto is pic.twitter.com/6RPxesraBU - House Hunter (@HouseHuntingX) March 9, 2025
Ruto defends church donations amid public backlash
The resurfaced video comes at a time when President William Ruto has intensified his church donations, sparking debate over the source of his funds.
On Sunday, Ruto donated Sh20 million to the African Inland Church (AIC) Fellowship-Annex in Eldoret. This brings his total donations to churches in just one week to Sh140 million. Last Sunday, he gave another Sh20 million to a different church and pledged Sh100 million to support its development.
The donations have attracted public criticism, with many questioning how the President can afford to give away such large amounts while the country is struggling economically.
However, Ruto has dismissed the backlash, insisting that he will continue supporting churches regardless of the criticism. Speaking at the AIC church, he said:
"Some people are asking why I am supporting churches. They should know that this country belongs to God, and I will not stop contributing to His work."
He also took a swipe at his critics, saying those who oppose church donations should focus on their own beliefs instead of dictating how he should spend his money.
"If you don't want to contribute, that is your problem. I have chosen to honour God, and I will not be stopped."
Protests at Jesus Winner Ministry
While Ruto was making his latest donation, tension was rising at Jesus Winner Ministry in Nairobi, a church that received Sh20 million and a pledge of Sh100 million from him last Sunday.
Angry youth, who had earlier vowed to storm the church, made good on their threat. They accused religious leaders of turning places of worship into platforms for political deals.
To contain the situation, police officers, including the General Service Unit (GSU), were deployed in large numbers. The protests escalated into chaos and running battles between the youth and security officers.
At least 30 people were arrested, and reports indicate that some journalists covering the events were assaulted.
The resurfacing of Uhuru's video has intensified discussions, with many drawing parallels between his past remarks and the current situation.
Critics argue that his words now seem more relevant than ever, while Ruto's supporters maintain that he is simply fulfilling his religious obligations.
