Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa has read meaning into President William Ruto’s promise to raise Ksh100 million for Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu, suggesting it may be more about the prime value of the land than pure generosity.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, March 3 2025, Thang’wa pointed out that an acre of land right next to Thika Road Mall (TRM), near the church’s location, costs a staggering Ksh157 million and implied that Ruto’s deep interest in the project might have more to do with the land’s worth than anything else.

“Question: How much is a one-acre piece of land just next to TRM? Answer: Ksh157 million. Now you know why the Ksh100 million pledge was done to the Winners church. Hii imeenda!”

Grand gesture

The senator’s remarks come just a day after President Ruto, while attending a service at the church, announced a personal donation of Ksh20 million and vowed to rally his friends to raise an additional Ksh100 million.

The church, led by Bishop Edward Mwai, is seeking Ksh1.2 billion for its construction project.

While the pledge was met with excitement from congregants, it also reignited a familiar debate about politicians and their bottomless pockets when it comes to church donations.

Ruto defended his contribution, brushing off criticism and making it clear that his giving is purely out of faith and not politics.

“I am a product of giving to God, and I’m unapologetic about giving to God. I do it on the firm foundation of the scriptures. I will make arrangements with my friends. We will look for Ksh 100 million and bring it here,” he declared.

He also took a jab at church leaders who turn down donations from politicians, saying he has combed through the scriptures and has not come across any verse instructing bishops to reject money from politicians.

“Whenever we give, we do so to God. I have been trying to find where it is written in the Bible – because I am an ardent reader – that when you give to God, it is returned by the bishops,” Ruto said.

Church land dispute

During the occasion, Ruto also took a moment to address the church’s prime 20-acre land in the fast-growing municipality, acknowledging that the church has had a heated dispute with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) over its ownership.

He reminded the congregants that they had prayed for him to ascend to power and assured them that he would return the favour by ensuring his people settle the matter in their favour.

“You spoke of the land contestation issue and told me you wanted it resolved. You prayed for me to be President, and God gave me that power. I have given orders to the Ministry of Lands to handle the matter,” Ruto affirmed.