The High Court has issued orders halting President William Ruto’s ambitious Ksh 1.2 billion plan to construct a mega church at State House, warning against any continued works on the site.
The project, which has faced growing public scrutiny, was challenged in court on grounds that it misuses taxpayers’ money and blurs the lines between state resources and religious interests. Petitioners argued that building a church within State House amounts to an unconstitutional allocation of public funds for private faith matters.
In its ruling, the court directed that all construction activities be suspended until the case is fully heard and determined. It further warned government agencies and contractors against disobeying the order, saying any violations would attract serious legal consequences.
The freeze comes amid rising concerns about government spending priorities at a time when Kenyans are grappling with high taxes and a struggling economy. Critics have accused the administration of engaging in extravagant projects while basic services such as healthcare and education remain underfunded.
President Ruto, who has often emphasized his strong Christian faith, had pitched the State House church project as a place of worship and reflection for the nation’s leadership. However, the court’s intervention now casts uncertainty over whether the grand plan will ever materialize.
As the case proceeds, Kenyans will be watching closely to see if the government will fight to defend the project or redirect the funds to other pressing needs.
