DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of stage-managing church congregations in an effort to repair his public image.
In a statement issued on December 17, Gachagua alleged that the President hired groups of supporters and transported them to church services using school buses to cheer him on.
The former DP further claimed that the individuals were allegedly paid Ksh1,000 each, while church donations were increased from Ksh2 million to Ksh20 million.
Gachagua Alleges Ruto Is Using Church Platforms for Image Building. Photo: Courtesy.
He also claimed that the strategy includes providing the hired supporters with uniforms and headgear linked to various church groups, including women’s guilds and mothers’ unions.
Gachagua alleged that the President acquired church headgear and attire for various denominations to make congregations appear organic, claiming the items were distributed to hired supporters instructed to cheer during services.
He further accused some religious leaders of collaborating in the scheme, but said such practices would not be tolerated in churches including the Catholic Church, PCEA and ACK, describing the move as a sign of political desperation.
The allegations follow President Ruto’s attendance at an AIPCA service in Gatundu North on December 14, accompanied by Kiambu leaders including Governor Wamatangi, MPs Kururia and Ng’ang’a.
During the service, supporters of Wamatangi and Ng’ang’a clashed in cheers, while Kururia recognized Ng’ang’a as incoming governor and Wamatangi as outgoing.
Photos also showed some men wearing women’s church headgear, posing as congregants.
