Why Ruto is taking his 2027 campaign back to the pulpit

Over recent months, Ruto has intensified his presence in churches often accompanied by heavy donations.

With under 20 months to the 2027 General Election, President William Ruto appears to be revisiting a familiar political script, one that heavily leans on the pulpit.

As politicians scramble for the attention of Gen Z voters, the church remains a potent platform, offering moral legitimacy, organisational reach, and emotional connection with the electorate. 

And with economic pressures rising and alliances shifting, religious institutions are increasingly emerging as a key battleground on the road to 2027.

Over recent months, Ruto has intensified his presence in churches nationwide, often accompanied by donations totaling tens of millions of shillings, pledges to support large religious projects, and renewed public affirmations of his faith. 

Among the beneficiaries are the African Divine Church in Vihiga, the Pentecostal Assemblies of God in Nyang’ori, AIC, AIPCA, PCEA, and various Catholic parishes.

The Head of State has also announced plans to construct a multipurpose chapel at State House, reinforcing his image as a leader deeply anchored in faith.

This renewed church outreach mirrors Ruto’s 2022 campaign strategy. As Deputy President, he built a vast religious support network, particularly in Mount Kenya, blending scripture-laced messaging with populist economic rhetoric. 

He was a frequent presence in church fundraisers, opposed State regulation of donations, and positioned himself as a defender of religious freedom. 

At the height of that campaign, his Karen residence became a hub for weekly prayer meetings, drawing thousands of clergy.

The formula worked. Mount Kenya played a decisive role in his victory, delivering heavily for him. Now, similar scenes are unfolding.

During a recent visit to AIPCA Gatundu North Diocese, President Ruto pledged Sh57 million towards church projects, Sh50 million for a cathedral, Sh5 million for a women’s guild bus, and Sh2 million for youth initiatives. 

“These are not handouts. They are investments in the moral and social fabric of our nation,” he said.

But the generosity has triggered criticism.

Former Mukurwe-ini MP Kabando wa Kabando dismissed the event as a political rally disguised as worship, accusing clergy of turning the altar into a campaign stage. 

“We must boldly tell off ‘MPESA-pastors’ camouflaging ravenous appetites on the pulpit,” he said on X.

Mainstream religious institutions have also expressed discomfort. 

The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops made headlines after the Nairobi Archdiocese rejected and returned Sh5.8 million donated by the President to Soweto Catholic Church, warning against political entanglement. 

Anglican leaders have similarly urged politicians to prioritise social justice over publicity-laden contributions. Some churches have since introduced guidelines limiting political speeches and publicised donations.

Still, Ruto remains unwavering. Speaking at AIC Jericho last year, he insisted he would continue supporting church projects despite criticism.
Analysts say the strategy is deliberate. 

Urban planner Prof Alfred Omenya argues that Ruto is “dusting off the 2022 playbook” to consolidate Mount Kenya’s vote in the absence of a strong regional challenger. 

Public policy expert Prof Gitile Naituli adds that the approach reflects an attempt to rebuild political capital at a time when economic discontent is widespread.

Ruto’s contributions which are estimated by analysts at nearly Sh500 million in the past year, have been directed largely to evangelical and Pentecostal congregations across Nairobi, Rift Valley, Western and parts of Eastern Kenya. 

Donations have included cash, vehicles and land. Recent pledges include Sh50 million to African Divine Church headquarters in Vihiga, Sh20 million to Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu, Sh20 million to AIC Fellowship Annex, and Sh100 million to AIC Loglogo in Marsabit.

However, scepticism persists. Political analyst Martins Oloo questions the source of the funds, alleging public resources may be fueling church-based political mobilisation.