Church renders/HANDOUT The Kenya Christian Professionals Forum has filed a court application seeking to be enjoined in the petition challenging the construction of a church within State House.
In the application, the forum states that it represents a segment of Kenyans and should therefore be allowed to participate as the case proceeds.
The forum notes that approximately 85 per cent of Kenya’s population identifies as Christian and argues that litigation affecting matters of Christianity or public worship warrants input from representatives of the faith community.
“One of the main objectives of the Applicant is to ensure that the perspectives and ideals of Christian professionals, and by extension the wider Christian community, are taken into account in public discourse, advocacy, policy formulation, and litigation on issues of public interest,” the application states.
The group contends that excluding it from the case could limit opportunities to present views on the role of faith in public leadership, spiritual expression in public spaces, and the historical significance of Christianity in Kenya.
It adds that its participation would help ensure that the case reflects the perspectives of Christian believers nationwide.
The forum further argues that the petition raises theological and cultural questions that, in its view, should involve the broader Christian community.
The move comes amid an ongoing constitutional challenge to the construction of the church, filed by several petitioners.
A temporary order currently bars the government from constructing a permanent church within State House precincts pending the outcome of the petition in Milimani High Court.
Justice Chacha Mwita issued a conservatory order restraining the government and its agents “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 petition was filed by Transparency International Kenya, the Kenya Human Rights Commission, and two other parties against the Katiba Institute and the State Law Office. The petitioners argue that constructing a religious facility within State House raises constitutional questions regarding the separation of State and religion.
The judge noted that the case raised issues of significant constitutional importance.
President William Ruto has defended the project, stating that it is funded from his personal resources and highlighting the improvements made to the place of worship.
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!