Ndii defends Ruto’s Ksh1.2B State House church amid faith debate
Economist David Ndii has defended President William Ruto’s decision to construct a Ksh1.2 billion church at State House, even as the move continues to attract criticism from sections of the public and religious leaders.
The debate erupted after it was revealed that a permanent church would replace the current iron-sheet structure that has been used as a chapel within the State House compound.
In a statement shared on his X account on Saturday, July 5, 2025, Ndii said the project was justified. He explained that the church would serve the many government employees and their families who reside within the State House grounds.
“The church serves the 1,000+ government staff and their families who live in the State House. The religion of the president is irrelevant; the staff will remain predominantly Christian, whatever the religion of future presidents,” Ndii stated.
Ndii’s comments came a day after President Ruto himself spoke out in defence of the project. While addressing a gathering on Friday, July 4, Ruto made it clear that he would not apologise for his decision to construct the church, despite the backlash.
“I am one person who believes in God, and I have no apologies to make for constructing a church. Do you understand me? I am not going to be sorry to anyone for building a church. We shall build the church of God,” the president said firmly.
Adding;
“Let the devil protest the decision and do that which he pleases. I am told that the papers are saying that I am building a church here at the State House. It is indeed true; I am building a church here at the State House.”
Ruto also pointed out that the existing chapel, made of iron sheets, did not reflect the dignity and status of the State House. He argued that a proper church building was needed to match the standards expected of such a national institution.
However, not everyone agrees with the president’s decision. Some Kenyans have raised concerns about the cost and timing of the project, especially at a time when the country is facing economic challenges, with schools and hospitals lacking basic infrastructure.
Mosque
Meanwhile, Muslim leaders have now called on President Ruto to also consider constructing a mosque within the State House to cater to Muslim visitors and staff. They say the State House, being a symbol of national unity, should reflect the religious diversity of the country.
“We know that our country respects every religion, and we have not seen the current president showing any hostility towards Muslims,” one of the Muslim leaders said.
“We have witnessed him in various places contributing to the construction of madrasas and mosques. We believe he holds no hatred toward our Islamic faith. Since the State House is a place that represents people of all religions, just as a church has been established for Christians, we are also requesting that a place of worship be set up for Muslims so that when we visit such a place, we have somewhere to pray,” the leader added.
