President William Ruto has suffered a major legal setback after the High Court in Nairobi stopped his plan to build a permanent church inside the State House.
On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Justice Chacha Mwita issued conservatory orders halting the project until November 18, 2025, to allow the court to fully hear the matter.
The petition was filed by Transparency International Kenya, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and other civil society groups. They argued that constructing a chapel inside the presidential compound goes against the principle of separation between state and religion as provided in the Constitution.
They also expressed fears that such a project could lead to misuse of public resources, despite the President’s insistence that it would be privately funded.
Justice Mwita noted that the petition raises serious constitutional and legal issues that touch on governance, accountability, and inclusivity in a secular state.
He said the matter goes beyond the construction of a physical structure and requires urgent judicial consideration.
The court directed that the government, its officers, or anyone acting on its behalf should not proceed with building any religious structure within the State House or any other official government residence until the case is determined. The judge warned that ignoring the orders would attract serious consequences.
“A conservatory order is hereby issued restraining the government of Kenya, its officers and or anyone acting on its behalf from constructing a permanent church or building associated with any religious faith within the Grounds of State House, Nairobi or any other State House or State Lodges until 18th November 2025,” the order read.
Civil society groups argued that the State House must remain neutral and inclusive for all Kenyans, regardless of their faith. They warned that putting up a Ksh1.2 billion chapel would tilt the presidency towards one religion and alienate citizens of other faiths.
President Ruto defended the plan, saying the chapel would be privately funded and would not involve taxpayer money. He stressed that it was his personal commitment to provide a dignified place of worship within the presidential compound. He also said he would not apologise for his faith, arguing that a proper place of worship at State House was necessary.
Ksh 1.2 million church
The proposed church, estimated at Ksh 1.2 billion, has sparked a heated public debate. Critics have questioned the timing and cost, pointing out that many Kenyans are struggling with the high cost of living, unemployment, and economic hardships.
They argue that such an expensive project sends the wrong message when the country is grappling with urgent social and economic challenges.
Among the petitioners are Transparency International Kenya, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, Atheists in Kenya, the Katiba Institute, Inuka Kenya ni Sisi, and the Institute of Social Accountability. Legal challenges began in July when lawyer Levi Munyeri filed an urgent case, which the court certified for hearing.
Religious leaders have also weighed in on the debate. Anglican Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit questioned how the church would operate, who would oversee it, and whether it would end up favouring one denomination over others.
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