Wamuzi News Ke
In a bold legal move that has sent shockwaves through the political and legal arenas, Nairobi-based lawyer Levi Munyeri has filed a lawsuit against President William Ruto, seeking to halt the controversial construction of the KSh 1.2 billion State House church project.
The petition, lodged at the High Court, raises grave concerns over the legality, transparency, and constitutional propriety of the extravagant church development, which has already triggered public scrutiny due to its staggering cost and the involvement of the presidency.
According to court documents seen by Wamuzi News Ke, Munyeri argues that the use of state resources or presidential influence in what he describes as a “personal religious project” amounts to a gross violation of public trust and misuse of office. He also questions the budgeting process and source of funds, which remain unclear to the public.
“This project, while shrouded in spiritual justification, carries dangerous implications for governance, fiscal responsibility, and constitutional order,” Munyeri’s affidavit reads in part.
He further demands that the court issue a conservatory order halting any ongoing or planned construction activities at State House grounds until the matter is fully heard and determined.
Public Backlash Mounts
The lawsuit comes amid growing uproar from civil society groups and concerned Kenyans who view the KSh 1.2 billion price tag as an insult to the nation’s economic struggles. Kenya is currently grappling with a biting cost-of-living crisis, ballooning public debt, and repeated tax hikes, sparking countrywide protests and unrest in recent months.
Activists have questioned why such a colossal sum would be directed toward a religious infrastructure within the seat of power while hospitals lack medicine, schools go underfunded, and young people face mass unemployment.
State House Remains Silent
At the time of publication, there had been no official statement from State House regarding the suit. However, sources close to the Presidency insist that the church is “entirely funded through private donations and not taxpayer money,” a claim yet to be substantiated by any public financial disclosure.
President Ruto, a devout Christian, has often defended the initiative as “a house of worship for the nation and a spiritual sanctuary for leadership,” but critics remain unconvinced.
Legal and Political Ramifications
If the court grants Munyeri’s request to suspend the project, it would mark an unprecedented legal check on presidential infrastructure linked to religion. Legal experts suggest this case could redefine the boundaries of executive discretion and public faith-based projects under the Kenyan Constitution.
The hearing is expected to be fast-tracked given the public interest, with the judiciary now under pressure to demonstrate independence amid rising calls for accountability from the highest office.
