Kenya: Muslim Leaders Demand Mosque at State House Following President Ruto’s Church Project Defense

Kenya: Muslim Leaders Demand Mosque at State House Following President Ruto’s Church Project Defense
———————————–
Muslim leaders across Kenya have called on President William Ruto to consider constructing a mosque at State House, following his defense of a Ksh 1.2 billion church construction project at the presidential residence, Kenyans.co.ke reported. The call was led by Sheikh Abu Qatada of the Pwani Patriotic Religious Leaders group, who emphasized that State House represents all Kenyans and should accommodate all faiths.

Sheikh Abu Qatada stated, “Since Christians already have a church at State House, we also ask for a mosque so that when we are at State House, we can have a place to pray.” The appeal comes amid public criticism over the church project, which some Kenyans described as an unnecessary use of taxpayer money.

On July 5, President Ruto defended the church construction during a speech at State House Nairobi, dismissing the opposition as “works of satan.” He clarified that the church is being built using his personal funds, not government money, and expressed no apologies for the project.

“When I was elected, we found an iron sheet church at State House. I have no apologies for building a proper church,” Ruto said, adding that his faith motivated the initiative. The debate continues as religious leaders seek equal representation of faiths within the State House grounds.