Sudi Apologizes to Catholic Bishops, Defends Government’s Support for Churches

Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has issued an apology to Catholic bishops, acknowledging the possibility that the government may have offended them through its contributions to the Church. This follows the bishops’ decision to reject a Ksh5.6 million donation from President William Ruto on November 17.

“Nataka niwaombe msamaha kwa sababu labda sisi tunawakosea saa ingine tunaenda kanisa pale chini kumbe labda mlikuwa mnataka mpitiwe ndio tufike pale,” Sudi said.

This translates to: “I want to apologize to you because maybe we are wronging you when we go to the church at the grassroots level, but perhaps you prefer us to go through you.”

Criticism of Bishops’ Stance

Sudi expressed confusion over the bishops’ opposition to the government’s donations, pointing out that many of their congregants and junior clergy have sought financial assistance from leaders. He argued that rejecting the funds hinders the development of churches that rely on such support.

ALSO READ: Catholic Bishop Rejects Ruto & Sakaja’s Donations

The MP reiterated that despite the bishops’ position, leaders would continue to tithe and support church needs while attending services regularly.

Call for Unity and Constructive Criticism

Sudi also called on the Church to focus on uniting the nation and guiding its moral compass, rather than sowing division. He urged church leaders to recognize and highlight the positive contributions of the government alongside their criticisms, emphasizing the human tendency to make mistakes.

Bishops Reject Government Donations

Sudi’s remarks come in response to the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) rejecting donations made by President Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during a visit to Soweto Catholic Church.

President Ruto had donated Ksh2 million for the construction of the Father’s House, Ksh600,000 for the choir, and pledged an additional Ksh3 million and a parish bus. Governor Sakaja contributed Ksh200,000.

ALSO READ: Governor Cecily Mbarire Lectures Embu Residents for Disrespecting President Ruto in Her Presence

In a statement, Metropolitan Archbishop Philip Anyolo announced the funds would be returned, citing ethical concerns and the need to keep the Church free from political influence.

“The Catholic Church strongly discourages the use of church events such as fundraisers as platforms for political self-promotion,” said Archbishop Anyolo. He added that the additional pledges and the bus donation were also declined.

This controversy follows earlier criticism from Catholic bishops over the government’s failure to deliver on key electoral promises.