President William Ruto has hit back at critics questioning the construction of a new chapel within the State House compound, firmly denying claims that the project will cost KSh 1.2 billion.
Addressing the issue during a Sunday service at Kigari Teachers Training College in Embu County, the President termed the figures reported by a local publication as “sheer propaganda” designed to mislead the public and fuel unnecessary outrage.
“Let me be clear — I will build that church with my own money. It will cost very little. People should stop exaggerating figures to distract us,” said Ruto.
According to the Head of State, the original State House chapel, which was constructed nearly a century ago, was made of iron sheets and was already in place before he assumed office. Ruto said his decision to renovate the entire State House wouldn’t be complete without restoring the “house of God.”
“There was already a church — a simple iron-sheet structure. Now that I am renovating the rest of State House, why should I leave the church behind?” he posed.
Ruto emphasized that the new structure will serve the over 300 staff and families working at State House, dismissing suggestions that the church is a political project or a showpiece.
“I heard someone asking if I want to be a bishop now,” he scoffed. “No. I am a believer. I will build the church… not for show, not for politics.”
The President’s remarks come amid growing public concern over the priorities of his administration, especially in light of economic hardships, tax increases, and public spending debates.
Several opposition leaders and civil society groups have questioned the timing and necessity of the project, suggesting that the government should focus instead on essential services and cost-cutting.
