Bishop: Politicians free to make donations to the church

Head of Redeemed Gospel Church Bishop Arthur Kitonga in Kisii on June 6, 2015. [File]

A top cleric has said there is nothing wrong with politicians supporting church projects.

Archbishop Arthur Kitonga (right) of Redeemed Gospel Church welcomed politicians to donate to the church.

Kitonga, who spoke during a meeting of over 2,000 religious leaders in Nyeri County, said politicians should also be allowed to attend church services, just like other faithful. 

“No one should be barred from contributing to the church because they are doing it is out of their own will and ability. There is nothing wrong with them supporting churches’ development and those in need of money,” Kitonga said after donating 2,100 Bibles to church leaders in the county.

He added: “It is not the role of pastors to question the source of politicians’ wealth. However, my appeal to members of the clergy is not to allow politicking in church.”

“If a politician must be given a chance to speak in church, let it be after the service. This will ensure the service is not interrupted. Politicians, just like anyone else should be free to seek spiritual nourishment.”

The church has been divided over whether politicians should be allowed to make cash donations to churches after some were accused of obtaining their millions corruptly.

The debate was ignited after Deputy President repeatedly donated millions of shillings in support of various churches.

DP’s critics have accused him of being corrupt and donating proceeds of graft to the church.

Anglican Church of Kenya archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit had warned some politicians are using the church to sanitise proceeds of graft.