Catholic Bishop warns against inviting corrupt Kenyan leaders in church fundraisings

Murang'a Catholic Diocese Bishop James Maria Wainaina (left) handing over Bishop Trophy to an official of Karumandi Catholic Denary as Murang'a Diocese marked Catholic Men Association (CMA) Patrons Day at Kiria ini Catholic Church. [PHOTO: BONIFACE GIKANDI/Standard]

A Catholic bishop has warned priests against inviting corrupt leaders to preside over fundraisers in their churches.

Bishop James Maria Wainaina of Murang'a said priests would be required to conduct background checks of all guests invited to lead fundraisers in the diocese.

"We shall be vetting all these leaders. Those invited should be people of integrity, not people who want to bring to church their ill-gotten wealth," said the cleric.

Speaking at Kiria-ini Catholic Church during the Murang'a Catholic Men's Association Patrons Day, Wainaina said it is disheartening that corruption levels had reached unprecedented levels.

"We glorify people who shower us with money during harambees without questioning the source of their wealth. We need to vet these people," he said.

Speaking at the same function, Senate Deputy Speaker Kembi Gitura and Murang'a Deputy Governor Gakure Monyo said a survey released by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) which showed Murang'a as one of the most corrupt counties should strengthen the resolve of locals to demand transparency.

Kembi said Senate's Public Accounts and Investment Committee will scrutinise the EACC report and summon officials from the counties mentioned.