Anglican Church of Kenya boss Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit has been accused of politicising donations from politicians to the church, days after he banned the church from accepting money from politicians.
Last week, Mr Ole Sapit expressed his reservations towards money contributed by politicians, adding that whenever they share, they should do it 'silently' without announcing.
“Let us not allow harambee money to become a way to sanitise corrupt leaders,” the Archbishop said. “Let us learn to worship God with our resources quietly and not hide behind harambees and guests of honour because that is where we go wrong," he argued.
The statement attracted criticism from a section of politicians allied to DP William Ruto, who accused him of being dragged to unnecessary political fist fights.
Bomet Central MP Ronald Tonui on Sunday echoed his voice, accusing Rev Sapit of being selective in his ban. He argued that ACK church had allowed donations from certain politicians over the weekend.
“At the weekend, we all witnessed the Anglican Church hosting a section of politicians, some of whom are known for running down institutions while others are accused of drug trafficking, theft of public funds, land grabbing and all manner of ills,” Mr Tonui said.
“When the Church leadership says it would not receive money and other forms of support, then a few days later goes ahead to host and receive donations from leaders of questionable character, is that not doublespeak?”
At Trans Nzoia on Sunday, Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi insisted that the money being donated to the church was clean, adding that it was unnecessary for Ole Sapit to impose the ban.
“The money we’re donating to the Church is clean, and if you fight the Church you are lost,” Mr Sudi said.
ODM leader Raila Odinga has accused the church of being used for money laundering by certain politicians. He has often questioned the church for not regulating the number of contributions made.