A donation by Members of Parliament to a Nairobi-based church has drawn criticism from the Atheists in Kenya Society, which is now demanding that the money be returned.
Saboti lawmaker Caleb Amisi, alongside several lawmakers aligned with the newly formed Kenya Moja political caucus, contributed over Ksh 100,000 to the Jesus Teaching Ministry (JTM), led by Pastor Peter Manyuru.
The funds were reportedly intended for the purchase of “anointed handkerchiefs,” items the church claims have divine powers to expose corruption and compel confessions.
The handkerchiefs are expected to be distributed to all three arms of government: the Executive, Judiciary, and Legislature.
Amisi, while speaking during a Sunday church service, said the initiative aims to “cleanse” Parliament, State House, and the Judiciary of corruption.
“I have given Ksh 100,000 to you, apostle, so that you can buy anointed handkerchiefs with that money and make sure that you supply the Judiciary, State House, and Parliament,” Amisi stated.
“Anybody involved in the vice can succumb to the powers of this piece of cloth.”
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Other prominent leaders present at the church, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, reportedly endorsed the initiative.
Atheists Send Warning to Churches
In a press statement released on August 25, the Atheists in Kenya Society called the donations inappropriate and compromising, urging JTM to return the money to the contributing politicians.
The group said churches should avoid receiving politically motivated donations, especially when such funds risk undermining their moral independence.
“Churches should maintain their integrity by rejecting similar donations that could jeopardize their independence,” said Harrison Mumia, president of the society.
Mumia stated that in a nation grappling with unemployment and widespread corruption, churches should be leading civic reforms, not engaging in symbolic theatrics.
“The church can offer education and resources to empower its members and the wider community to identify, oppose, and report corrupt activities,” the statement read.
The move by MPs came amid heightened scrutiny of Kenya’s Parliament. President William Ruto issued a warning to lawmakers accused of soliciting bribes to influence committee outcomes.
The President vowed to prosecute those involved.
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During the same Sunday service, congregants were seen publicly confessing to acts such as witchcraft when the anointed handkerchiefs were waved, scenes that some critics described as “manipulative.”
Reactions from Citizens
Kenyans took to social media to express their frustration and disbelief following the remarks, with many criticizing the government’s handling of corruption and economic issues.
“And you wonder why we still import toothpicks,” wrote user @mogire_jusper on X.
Others expressed a sense of resignation. “You know what, at this point… thoughts and prayers because… weh!” tweeted Ida Nyakinyua, summing up the helplessness many feel in the face of recurring scandals.
One user, who goes by brave soul, condemned what they described as performative efforts to address corruption.
“A mere handkerchief cannot rehabilitate or redeem them. People so ingrained in corruption that they go all the way to crime to satisfy their insatiable greed need more than these cheap sideshows,” the user posted.
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