Kenyan President William Ruto is overseeing the construction of a church within the State House grounds in Nairobi, a project estimated to cost approximately 1.2 billion Kenyan shillings (KES). The president has confirmed that he is funding the church personally and denies using public funds. He has defended the project, stating that the existing church was a temporary structure made of tin and that the new building is intended to be a permanent, modern facility to serve State House staff and their families. Ruto has repeatedly said he has no apologies for building the church, emphasizing that the house of God should reflect the dignity of the highest seat of power. The project has sparked widespread debate and criticism, with opponents questioning the constitutionality of constructing a church within a government property, raising concerns about the separation of church and state. Some opposition leaders allege misuse of public funds despite Ruto's claims. Muslim leaders in various regions, including Mombasa and Eldoret, have urged the president to also consider building a mosque within State House to accommodate Muslim worshippers. The controversy has led to legal action, with a lawyer filing a lawsuit seeking to block the church's construction. Supporters, including some religious leaders and members of parliament allied to Ruto, defend the project as a renovation and necessary facility for the State House community. The church is reported to have an 8,000-seat capacity. The debate continues amid broader discussions about priorities in the face of Kenya's economic challenges.